Government of Canada investment enables construction of business centre and waterfront improvements
February 11, 2019 – Marathon, Ontario – Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario - FedNor
The residents and businesses of Marathon will benefit from new and improved infrastructure and services thanks to a Government of Canada investment, through FedNor, of more than $1.1 million. Of the total, $1 million enabled the Town of Marathon to construct an 11,000-square-foot regional business centre in the community's new seniors' complex. The remaining $140,045 will support capital upgrades to the town's waterfront area on Lake Superior.
The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour and Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay–Superior North, made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor.
The new business centre, integrated as part of Peninsula Manor, will offer commercial office space for new local business start-ups that will, in turn, provide services to residents of the complex. The common area will also allow residents and community groups to access business services, and participate in education, training, recreation, health and social programs in a barrier-free space. Enhancements to the waterfront area include the construction of three new docks, stairs, picnic tables, seating areas, fish cleaning station, and safety refuge station. These upgrades will make the site fully accessible and enable the Town of Marathon to reinstate its annual fish derby, and pursue other regional tourism-based initiatives.
"Investing in local infrastructure is vital to the long-term growth and prosperity of our communities. Projects such as these demonstrate our government's commitment to build strong and healthy communities that have quality and reliable infrastructure and facilities at the service of Canadians."
The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor
"I am proud to be part of a government that invests to make our communities stronger and more accessible to all citizens. The investments highlighted today will have a lasting impact on the Town of Marathon, and enable the community to better and more effectively offer a variety of programs, services and events to residents and visitors of all ages."
The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, and Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay—Superior North
"I am pleased that the Government of Canada recognized the social and economic significance of these community assets. The addition of the seniors' complex to our community will allow people to remain here at home in Marathon while providing dignity and independence for our seniors and growing the local economy. This is a win-win situation for all involved."
Rick Dumas, Mayor, Town of Marathon
Quick facts
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The Prosperity and Growth Strategy for Northern Ontario outlines the Government of Canada's approach to ensure the region can fully benefit from the national Innovation and Skills Plan. It is focused on three key economic development areas: supporting innovation; growing companies; and building stronger communities.
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The funding announced today is provided through FedNor's Northern Ontario Development Program, which supports projects that promote sustainable community economic development, enhance business development and growth, and facilitate innovation.
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The Town of Marathon's Penisula Manor is a new 32,000-square-foot, 36-unit seniors' supportive housing complex. If features one bedroom, two bedroom and studio suites and offers residents a range of services, including personal support workers, housekeeping, meals, and common social, recreation and cooking spaces.
