August 30, 2011
Grand Falls-Windsor’s Riverfront and Downtown Development Supported by Provincial Government
The Provincial Government is contributing a further $500,000 to the Town of Grand Falls-Windsor to implement the second phase of the community’s riverfront and downtown development plan. Work during this phase will include development of a riverfront park and gorge lookout and create 65 jobs during construction.
The investment, which was announced today by the Honourable Susan Sullivan, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, at the boat launch in Grand Falls-Windsor, brings the Provincial Government’s total commitment to this endeavour to $2 million.
“Improvements on High Street and downtown area, coupled with the new riverfront development are creating a stronger community and more appealing destination for visitors,” said Minister Sullivan. “Recreational and cultural infrastructure is extremely valuable in the social and economic development of communities. It helps build community pride, grow the local tourism industry, and attract business development.”
Phase one of the Town of Grand Falls-Windsor’s riverfront and downtown development plan consisted of streetscape enhancements and façade improvements on High Street. The second phase, which is scheduled to begin in the fall, will include a new boat launch in Sanger Park, as well as a pier walk, natural seating area, kiosk, expanded parking, boat trailer parking, and upgraded site access.
“Grand Falls-Windsor is extremely fortunate to have the majestic Exploits River flowing through its boundaries,” said Al Hawkins, Mayor, Grand Falls-Windsor. “It has been a goal of council that there would be recreational and cultural accessibility to salmon anglers, tourists and families. This contribution by the Provincial Government makes it possible to put in place the necessary infrastructure to improve the Exploits River as an economic generator and enhance the quality of life of the people of central Newfoundland. The town council is very appreciative of the ongoing support and financial contribution.”
The Exploits River is widely-recognized as a destination for outdoor enthusiasts and salmon fishing. Development of the riverfront area builds on that reputation and will potentially attract more local, national, and international visitors, which will lead to new opportunities in the retail, service, and accommodations sectors.
“Today’s announcement and the Provincial Government’s long-standing support for the development of Grand Falls-Windsor’s riverfront and downtown stems from extremely productive dialogue with community officials,” said Minister Sullivan. “Interactions of this nature are key pillars of business and economic development. In Grand Falls-Windsor, we can see that approach lead to the development of community infrastructure, more advanced tourism products, and an emerging health and social sciences sector. This collective activity will help stimulate new opportunities for local businesses.”
This initiative was funded through the Regional/Sectoral Diversification Fund. This program, through Budget 2011 Standing Strong: For Prosperity. For Our Future. For Newfoundland and Labrador, has $5 million available for investment. Administered by the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, the program provides non-repayable contributions to economic development agencies for initiatives that address regional and sectoral development and diversification.
- 30 -
Media contacts:
| Scott Barfoot Director of Communications Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development 709-729-4570, 690-6290 scottbarfoot@gov.nl.ca |
Al Hawkins Mayor Town of Grand Falls-Windsor 709-489-0407 |
2011 08 30 10:10 a.m.