October 15, 2020 - Gander, NL - Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency - ACOA
Strong communities are key pillars of a thriving Atlantic Canadian economy. This is why the federal government is working closely with its many community partners to help them diversify their local economies and create jobs. Through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and the five other Regional Development Agencies, the Government of Canada is investing to build healthy, resilient communities so their residents can enjoy a high quality of life for generations to come.
Governments help strengthen tourism through infrastructure upgrades
Scott Simms, Member of Parliament for Coast of Bays-Central-Notre Dame, on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, along with the Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced a total investment of $343,678 for improvements to the Newfoundland T'Railway.
This investment will enable the Newfoundland T'Railway Council to upgrade several bridges along the trail system, which stretches 883 kilometres from St. John's to Channel-Port aux Basques on the former Canadian National rail bed. The improvements, which will be made on the Southwest Coast, will enhance safety, ensure high-quality user experience and help generate opportunities for more recreational activities and tourism development.
Today's announcement further demonstrates the Government of Canada's commitment to communities, non-profit organizations and businesses in Atlantic Canada, helping them to work through these tough economic times and thrive. Initiatives like this one will help grow the tourism sector, get Atlantic Canadians back to work and ensure that all communities can fully participate in Canada's economic recovery.
Quotes
"The Newfoundland T'Railway is a valuable recreation and tourism asset enjoyed by residents and visitors year-round. The trail system is linked to several rural communities throughout the province, which helps generate economic activity. Our support for this project will ensure users have the best experience possible, encourage more healthy and exciting activities and help boost our tourism industry, especially during the winter and shoulder seasons."
- Scott Simms, Member of Parliament for Coast of Bays-Central-Notre Dame
"Investing in tourism infrastructure is essential to building healthy communities and growing a strong, sustainable rural economy. We recognize the significant impact COVID-19 has had on tourism and that is why we are investing in important projects to strengthen key assets like the Newfoundland T'Railway. Initiatives like this one will help Newfoundland and Labrador's tourism sector come back even stronger than before."
- Gudie Hutchings, Member of Parliament for Long Range Mountains
"We are pleased to support the T'Railway Council with this initiative that focuses on upgrades to an economic generator for many communities."
- The Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology
"Once completed, these infrastructure upgrades will ensure the safety, accessibility and continuity of the trail for decades to come. The project will benefit all residents of the province in terms of personal enjoyment and outdoor recreation, as well as create new and continuing opportunities in the ecotourism sector."
- Rick Noseworthy, President, Newfoundland T'Railway Council
Quick facts
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The Government of Canada, through ACOA's Innovative Communities Fund (ICF), is providing a non-repayable contribution of $211,399 while the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is contributing $134,375 for the first phase of this project.
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Trans Canada Trail is also contributing $150,000 towards the project.
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Working in partnership with Atlantic communities and stakeholders, ICF builds on the strengths of communities and provides the tools needed to identify opportunities for sustainable economic growth
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Formed in 1996, the Newfoundland T'Railway Council is a non-profit organization dedicated to the sustainable development and maintenance of the Newfoundland T'Railway.
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The multi-use trail system forms the Newfoundland section of The Great Trail stretching from St. John's to Victoria, BC, and to Tuktoyaktuk, NWT.
