July 8, 2021 · Grand Narrows, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
Atlantic Canada's tourism industry is vital to the region's economy and supports thousands of local jobs and businesses. That is why the Government of Canada is investing in infrastructure to improve and enrich visitor experiences in rural Nova Scotia.
Federal government supports tourism on the Grand Narrows waterfront
Today, Jaime Battiste, Member of Parliament for Sydney-Victoria, announced a $58,496 non-repayable contribution to the Grand Narrows Waterfront Development Society. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA.
Trans Canada Trail, through its funding from Parks Canada, is also contributing $18,050 toward this project for both trail infrastructure and signage.
Renovations and additions to the wharf will provide travellers arriving by land or water with improved amenities for boating and recreational vehicles, as well as food and hospitality options. The project will help to attract visitors to the area and maintain twelve seasonal jobs.
Today's announcement further demonstrates the Government of Canada's commitment to boost local tourism and promote Atlantic Canada's unique places, experiences and businesses.
Quotes
"Tourism is a major economic driver in Canada, one that has been sorely missed during the pandemic. Investing in the tourism assets of rural communities will help them to attract more visitors, create jobs, and boost local economies."
- The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA
"The Bras d'Or Lake is a popular summer destination for both residents and visitors from all over. This project will improve the visitor experience and reinforce Grand Narrows' reputation as a must-see stop on people's tour of Cape Breton Island."
- Jaime Battiste, Member of Parliament for Sydney-Victoria
"Trans Canada Trail is proud to be one of the funding partners of the Grand Narrows Waterfront project. We know that Canadians highly value their outdoor experiences as a means of enhancing their mental, emotional and physical health. The Trans Canada Trail contributes to the health and well-being of Canadians - and their communities - and we are proud of the role that the Trail plays in boosting tourism and enjoyment on the waterfront for local citizens and visitors."
- Eleanor McMahon, President & CEO, Trans Canada Trail
"This investment will improve the Grand Narrows Waterfront Development Society's potential to attract visitors to the Grand Narrows Waterfront. Visitors will be welcomed to a well -constructed wharf facility, improved marine service and access to shore side amenities and experiences."
- Donnie Campbell, Vice Chairman, Grand Narrows Waterfront Development Society
Quick facts
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The Grand Narrows Waterfront features a marina, amenities and a restaurant for visitors, including the Ferrymen's Hall, the Wheelhouse Café, the Chartroom, and the Kayak Shack.
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This contribution supports the installation of interpretive signage, upgrades to electrical systems and water access, and replacement of a sewage pump-out unit to service boats and recreational vehicles. This project will also add a concrete pad deck area, a pergola, recycle container stations, beachside seating, and paving upgrades.
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Trans Canada Trail is the national not-for-profit organization that stewards the 27,000-km Canada-wide Trail network of the same name - the longest in the world.
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Funding for this project is provided through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency's (ACOA) Innovative Communities Fund (ICF).
