September 26, 2008

NEWS

Ontario is investing $83,225 to help revitalize the Tamworth-Erinsville economic community.

The province will fund improvements to Tamworth's streetscape, pedestrian spaces and children's playgrounds as well as to their promotional materials such as business/services signage, tour pamphlets and website. A portion of the funds will also go towards exploring the use of switchgrass as an alternate "green" energy source.

The funding is part of the Rural Economic Development Program which invests in community-based projects in three priority areas:
•Improved access to health care services
•Revitalized communities and downtowns
•Enhanced skills training.

QUOTES

"This project will not only enhance Tamworth's physical appearance, but will also allow the community to develop its economic skills through new alternative crop projects," said Leona Dombrowsky, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. "The McGuinty government is a strong supporter of innovative 'green' projects, such as this one."

"The physical improvements will add a welcoming warmth to our community and will contribute to increased retail opportunities, employment and better playgrounds for our children," said Stone Mills Reeve Debbie Thompson.

QUICK FACTS

•Since 2003, Ontario has invested $60.3 million in 185 projects through the Rural Economic Development Program.

•The Township of Stone Mills is the municipal authority for Tamworth-Erinsville.

LEARN MORE

Find out more about Tamworth.

Learn more about the Rural Economic Development Program.

For more information contact:

Sherry Persaud,
Minister's Office,
416-326-6439

Brent Ross,
Communications Branch,
416-326-9342