Province Invests in Downtown Amherst

The province is helping Amherst be more competitive by investing $500,000 to help the downtown area become more attractive to new businesses.

"New companies want to see a welcoming downtown business district," said Economic and Rural Development Minister Percy Paris today, Dec. 7. "By creating an attractive community, we are stimulating economic activity that will benefit all of Cumberland County.

"Helping to implement the Town of Amherst Centre First Project Action Plan is just one way the province's jobsHere plan is creating good jobs and a strong economy for Nova Scotians in every region."

The $8-million plan outlines a comprehensive vision for downtown Amherst reinvestment and redevelopment, including public and open space improvements, business retention and expansion, parking and traffic circulation, and land use policies.

"The Centre First Project represents a bold vision for the future of this community," said Amherst Mayor Robert Small. "This investment shows that by working together, we are dedicated to expanding Amherst's role as an important gateway and economic engine for the province."

So far, the Town of Amherst and the Cumberland Regional Economic Development Association have contributed more than $3 million towards the plan, and additional private business investment is expected.

"We are thrilled that the province is supporting the redevelopment of downtown Amherst," said Beth Munroe, chair of the Downtown Amherst Revitalization Society. "This validates our work, and should encourage further private investment in our downtown to help local businesses be more competitive."

Funding for this project comes through the Community Development Trust Fund. The federal government started the $34.9-million fund in 2008 to help communities and workers with economic challenges.