Charlottetown to benefit from revitalized infrastructure
February 14, 2019 – Charlottetown, PE – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Tourism is a major contributor to the economy of Prince Edward Island and its capital, Charlottetown. It is an industry built and driven by businesses of all scales, and shaped by experiences and cultural assets that are distinct to the region. Providing more Island-based entrepreneurs and creators greater opportunity to showcase their products is a key piece to expanding this important sector and strengthening the destination.
That is why the Government of Canada is providing a non-repayable contribution of $786,500 to the Charlottetown Harbour Authority Inc. to support the redevelopment of a major property on the historic Charlottetown waterfront. The project will include renovations to the former Founders Hall building to create an urban market and food hall that offers PEI culinary, artisan, and crafted products. The location will also become a centerpiece of infrastructure catering to the growing cruise ship industry.
Sean Casey, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and Member of Parliament for Charlottetown, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) joined members of the Charlottetown business community and representatives of the Charlottetown Port Authority to make the announcement today.
The Government of Canada is making smart investments that will create good, middle-class jobs in our country. It is helping Atlantic Canadian communities access the tools they need to create sustainable economic growth. Support for this project is one way the Government of Canada is working to achieve its Atlantic Growth Strategy outcome of long-term economic prosperity in the region.
"Atlantic Canada has character and a geography that draw visitors from across Canada and around the world. As cruise ship travel to the region increases, significant ports like Charlottetown have the potential to build on this valuable industry and create a significant boost for theier local economy. The Government of Canada is pleased to invest in a project that will support and create opportunities for so many entrepreneurs."
- The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA
"Charlottetown is a stunning gateway to our beautiful Island. Businesses, cultural producers, and development organizations have worked to make our capital city a vibrant place to live and visit. This redeveloped market on the waterfront will become a showcase for great Island products. I am confident that Islanders will be excited to support the businesses there and that visitors will be greeted with a truly memorable experience."
- Sean Casey, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and Member of Parliament for Charlottetown
"We are excited to announce this project today with the assistance of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. Having a Food Hall and Market located within walking distance of the port will provide cruise passengers new opportunities to experience some of the best of Prince Edward Island. In addition to cruise traffic, the Founders' Food Hall and Market will be a welcoming centre for all visitors to our island and will stand as a community hub, offering new and small business operators the opportunity to grow and develop their products."
- Mike Cochrane, CEO, Charlottetown Harbour Authority, Inc.
Quick facts
-
The Government of Canada invested $786,500 in this project through ACOA's Innovative Communities Fund.
-
The Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) focuses on investments that lead to long-term employment and economic capacity building in Atlantic Canadian communities.
-
Eligible recipients include non-commercial/not-for-profit organizations such as local development associations, municipalities and their agencies, business or technology institutes, industry/sector associations, economic development associations, local co-operatives, universities and educational institutions.
-
The ICF continues to build on the objectives of the Innovation and Skills Plan, a multi-year strategy to create well-paying jobs for the middle class and those working hard to join it.
