FedDev Ontario supports 34 projects to drive community revitalization, tourism and local economic growth
October 12, 2022 - St. Catharines, ON
As one of Canada's top tourist destinations, the Niagara region attracts more than 13 million visitors each year to enjoy the area's renowned tourist attractions, wineries, museums, shops, restaurants and the natural beauty of local parks and Niagara Falls. Tourism spending in the region is over $2 billion annually and has a significant spillover impact on the local economy. The Government of Canada understands the importance of the tourism sector and vibrant community spaces for destinations like Niagara and is committed to supporting these communities as they rebound from the pandemic and position for a strong future.
Today, the Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), announced over $8.2 million in support for 34 tourism and community infrastructure projects in the Niagara region. She was joined by Chris Bittle, Member of Parliament for St. Catharines, and Vance Badawey, Member of Parliament for Niagara Centre. These investments, through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) and the Tourism Relief Fund (TRF), will create and revitalize community spaces and enhance tourism attractions to welcome more visitors and build stronger, more vibrant communities.
The announcement was hosted by the City of St. Catharines, which received a non-repayable contribution of more than $175,000 to renovate the St. Catharines Museum and Welland Canals Centre. With this investment, the City will install new museum exhibits and make the entrance more accessible.
In addition, Plenty Canada received $180,000 to install contemporary Indigenous public art at Jordan Hollow Park in Lincoln, establishing an Indigenous cultural park that will be a gathering space for community members and visitors, celebrating Indigenous art and culture in the region.
An additional 32 projects in the Niagara region are receiving support to enhance community spaces and tourist offerings, attract visitors and prepare for future growth. Project details can be found in the backgrounder.
