News Release Archive
NEWS RELEASE (CNS648) -->> ECONOMIC RENEWAL--FOUR WATERFRONT PROJECTS ANNOUNCED ECONOMIC RENEWAL--FOUR WATERFRONT PROJECTS ANNOUNCED ----------------------------------------------------------------- Premier John Savage today unveiled plans that will make it easier to attract new business and tourists to four Cape Breton communities. At a news conference overlooking Sydney harbour, the Premier, along with Labour Minister Manning MacDonald, on behalf of Economic Renewal Agency Minister Richie Mann, announced almost $300,000 from ERA's Waterfront Development Program for Sydney, North Sydney, Bras d'Or and Louisbourg. Premier Savage reiterated his government's commitment to bringing forward initiatives that will enhance infrastructure and stimulate economic growth in Nova Scotia communities. Referring to the Sydney waterfront, Premier Savage said the province's investment has already proved its worth. "Think back a few years to what this waterfront area used to look like, and look at it today." said Premier Savage. "The Sydney waterfront is now a popular place for business and pleasure, as well as being a source of considerable local pride. The value in sprucing up waterfronts is right before our eyes." The provincial government is in partnership with the Cape Breton Regional Municipality and Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation with the four waterfront projects. The other levels of government will be announcing their funding for the projects separately. For ongoing improvements to the Sydney waterfront, Economic Renewal Agency will contribute $200,000 this year to continue the boardwalk north toward the Government wharf and south toward Wentworth Park. In Louisbourg, ERA will contribute $50,000 to renovate the craft centre, extend the seawall and complete landscaping. In North Sydney, ERA will invest $25,000 to continue electrical work, install light fixtures and add to the landscaping. In Bras d'Or, ERA will provide $18,000 for the continuation of a boardwalk which is already providing great pleasure to residents and tourists alike. "We're helping our communities make the most of a natural attribute. Waterfront revitalization projects show-off the natural beauty of Cape Breton, which is clearly one of Cape Breton's most valuable assets." said the premier. Labour Minister Manning MacDonald welcomed today's announcement. "The boardwalk extension south toward Wentworth Park will open up the entire harbour front to tourists and residents." said Mr. MacDonald. "A combination of boardwalk and landscaped sidewalk north to the Government Wharf will make Sydney a more attractive port for cruise ship activity." Economic models indicate that provincial funding generates economic spinoff activity during the construction phase by creating jobs, purchasing materials and providing services. Once completed, revitalized waterfronts increase tourism and attract new business to the area. ERA's Waterfront Development Program is available to municipal units whose waterfronts feature commercial or cultural activities. The program helps local waterfront development corporations access funding on capital projects from the federal and municipal governments, and the private sector, providing economic spin-offs and construction-related jobs in the communities. All four projects were recommended for development in the Cape Breton Regional Economic Development Strategic Action Plan. Projects announced today are expected to be completed by next spring. -30- Contact: Linda Laffin 902-424-8922 trp Oct. 11, 1996 - 12:30 p.m.