In recognition of the National Tourism Week (April 24-30), the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor, announced FedNor investments totalling $2,886,971 to protect, strengthen and grow Northern Ontario's tourism sector. Provided through the FedNor's core programs and the Government of Canada's Tourism Relief Fund (TRF), the investments will support 14 tourism projects across the region.
Tourism Week is an annual invitation for all tourism partners to come together to champion and promote Canada's destinations, tourism businesses, and employees - from coast to coast to coast. The rebuilding of Canada's visitor economy is now underway, but there's a long way to go before tourism reclaims being the $105-billion economic powerhouse it was pre-pandemic. That's why this year's theme is CANADA: Powered by Tourism!
Township of Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls
$784,800
Outdoor recreational facility
The Township of Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls is receiving a non-repayable investment of $630,000 to build a roof to shelter the community's newly refurbished outdoor recreational facility and event space. Once the project is complete, the facility will be prepared to welcome more tourism, artist, artisan, agricultural and community events, while serving as a hub for local businesses to host market days.
Funded through FedNor's Northern Ontario Development Program (NODP), this strategic initiative will extend the facility's operating season, create eight local jobs and generate over $400,000 in economic benefits for the community each year.
CIINO
The Township of Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls is also receiving a non-repayable investment of $154,800
to retain an Economic Development Officer (EDO) on staff for an additional three-year period. Building on the success the position has achieved to date, the EDO will undertake a variety of priority projects that will enhance tourism, strengthen the economy and position the township for sustainable growth and prosperity. Specifically, the EDO will advance key priorities identified in the Highway Corridor
Re-Development Plan such as streetscapes improvements and re-developing the Bridge Park in Sioux Narrows and the exterior grounds of the Northern Ontario Sport Fishing Centre. Funded through FedNor's Community Investment Initiative for Northern Ontario (CIINO), the project will also lead to the development of a business attraction and retention strategies and a trail connectivity plan.
City of Thunder Bay
$500,000
The City of Thunder Bay is receiving a non-repayable NODP investment of $500,000 to support the revitalization of the south core downtown. This four-year initiative will help transform downtown Fort William into a vibrant tourism destination by opening the street to public travel and creating new public spaces and business opportunities. Specifically, the funding will be used to demolish the Victoriaville Centre, repair and upgrade adjacent buildings and infrastructure, develop conceptual design plans, complete street-scape improvements, introduce active and alternative transportation options, and create new public squares, parks and spaces. Once complete, this project is expected to accelerate business development and growth, increase tourism and create 50 local jobs.
Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission (EDC)
$315,515
The Thunder Bay Community EDC is receiving a non-repayable NODP contribution of $315,515 to complete two economic development studies for the Prince Arthur's Landing and Marina Park waterfronts. With the goal of boosting tourism and economic development in the City of Thunder Bay, the project will examine what is legally permissible, physically possible and financially feasible to maximize the economic benefits of the waterfront for local residents and the business community.
Crawford's Camp
$100,000
Crawford's Camp received a non-repayable TRF contribution of $100,000 to build an all-season lodge to expand its operating season. Specifically, the FedNor funding supported preliminary costs to build the
lodge, including the purchase of floor, roof, and wall packages. The new lodge is designed to accommodate up to 34 people and features a conference room, laundry facilities, store, offices, and a commercial kitchen. Once fully operational, the new facility is expected to create up to five new jobs.
Lac Seul Resort
$100,000
Lac Seul Resort (LSR) received a non-repayable TRF contribution of $100,000 to modernize and expand its operations. Specifically, the funding was used to winterize four cabins by improving insulation, replacing siding, windows, and heating systems. The funding is also helping LSR expand its eco-tourism operations and purchase and install a renewable energy system.
Centre Island South Ltd.
$65,580
Centre Island South Ltd. received a non-repayable TRF contribution of $65,580 to replace the roofs on the main lodge, staff cabin, and dock house. This targeted investment was used to repair damaged plywood and fascia boards, lay ice and water shield, tar paper, and replace existing shingles. Specifically, these health and safety upgrades were completed to ensure dry accommodations for both guests and employees, and support the long-term success of this premier fishing resort in Lake of the Woods.
Tourism initiatives supported by FedNor in Northeastern Ontario
City of Temiskaming Shores
$18,000
The City of Temiskaming Shores is receiving a non-repayable contribution of $18,000 to plan, design and construct a showcase timber pedestrian and cycling bridge over the Wabi River. Identified as a strategic priority in the City's Recreation Master Plan, the multi-use bridge will connect two sections of the South Temiskaming Active Travel Organization's non-motorized trail network currently separated by the river. Funded through FedNor's NODP, this project will be completed in partnership with the McEwen School of Architecture to help increase recreational tourism in the region.
Old Mission Resort
$80,000
Old Mission Resort is receiving a non-repayable TRF investment of $80,000 to modernize and upgrade its main lodge so the business can welcome more guests, increase revenue and operate year-round. The work to be undertaken includes foundation replacement, installing a steel roof, building a split level deck and adding a screened in Muskoka room.
Noelville Family Resort
$99,750
The Noelville Family Resort is receiving a non-repayable TRF contribution of $99,750 to modernize and expand its facilities. Specifically, the FedNor funding will be used to establish five new camping lots for recreational vehicles. Work to be completed as part of the project includes site preparation and building a road and overflow parking lot with charging stations for electric vehicles. It will also support infrastructure upgrades such as waste water, hydro, streetlights and portable water lines for the new lots. Once complete, this priority project will support the long-term sustainability of the resort by helping them to increase occupancy and revenue.
Municipality of French River
$36,000
The Municipality of French River is receiving a non-repayable investment of $36,000 to complete four Inclusive Community Cultural Murals in various locations throughout the community. Funded through FedNor's Economic Development Initiative (EDI), the four portable murals will showcase the historical and cultural significance of the Francophone, Metis Indigenous, Youth, Women, and LGBTQ2S groups in the community. Once complete, the murals will create a unique experience that will tell the community's story, engage citizens and help increase tourism and appreciation for local arts and culture.
Tourism initiatives supported by FedNor in Northcentral Ontario
Escarpment Biosphere Conservancy Inc.
$225,000
The Escarpment Biosphere Conservancy is receiving a non-repayable investment of $225,000 to improve six hiking trails in the Manitoulin district, while promoting the importance of the unique ecosystems the sites preserve. Specifically, the funding will be used to install interpretive and wayfinding signs, and improve parking, observation platforms, benches and the trail systems. Funded through the TRF, this priority project is expected to create five full-time jobs during the construction phase of the project, while boosting tourism spending in the region by $1.5 million over the next five years.
Town of Smooth Rock Falls
$112,326
The Town of Smooth Rock Falls received a non-repayable contribution of $112,326 to develop a waterfront master plan. Identified as a local priority, the 20-year plan is helping to guide zoning, business and investment attraction, as well as responsible development along 140 acres of municipally owned waterfront property. Funded through FedNor's NODP, the master plan is both a vision and an action strategy to enhance the important role the Mattagami River plays in the future of the community in terms of environmental, social and economic sustainability.
Town of Marathon
$450,000
The Town of Marathon is receiving a non-repayable NODP contribution of $450,000 to help transform its Pebble Beach waterfront area into a thriving and accessible tourism attraction. Specifically, the funding will be used to build a viewing platform, seating and a stairway to safely access the beach, which has scenic views and ties to the Group of Seven trail system. The project will also include building a washroom and parking facilities, and installing lighting and interpretive signage to enhance the visitor experience.
