Rural Economic Development (RED) Program

For Immediate Release

June 6, 2008

Fort Frances Has a Story to Tell

McGuinty Government Supports Fort Frances Heritage Tourism Project

Ontario is helping Fort Frances bring its heritage to life through exciting improvements to tourism attractions.

The province is investing $250,000 to help the town:

• Develop a waterfront heritage route
• Relocate the lookout tower
• Develop an "Interpretive Centre" and new signage to showcase history and local attractions

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

"The McGuinty government is pleased to help the Town of Fort Frances share its rich heritage while ensuring its future economic growth," said Leona Dombrowsky, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.

"The Town of Fort Frances is excited to receive funding through the Rural Economic Development Program for our ongoing project," said Roy Avis, Mayor for the Town of Fort Frances. "Based on the results of a Business Retention and Expansion Study in 2005, and with the completion of Phase I of the Heritage Tourism Project in 2007, moving ahead with Phase II will bring us closer to our economic development goals."

Quick Facts

• Since 2003, Ontario has invested $50 million in 158 projects through the Rural Economic Development Program.
• Fort Frances is the oldest settlement west of Lake Superior with the first European explorers arriving in 1688. Learn More

Read more about the Rural Economic Development Program.

Find out part of the story of Fort Frances.

For more information contact:

Kelly Synnott
Minister's Office
416-326-6439

Brent Ross
Communications Branch
416-326-9342

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