Innovation, Business and Rural Development
January 20, 2014

Supporting Communities Through Strategic Investments in Tourism

Winter Tourism in Clarenville Boosted with $279,000 Investment

To support the Alpine Development Alliance Corporation’s goal of further developing Clarenville into a choice winter tourism destination, the Provincial Government has provided $279,000 in funding to support improvements to tourism infrastructure. The announcement was made today in Clarenville at the White Hills Ski Resort by the Honourable Charlene Johnson, Minister of Innovation, Business and Rural Development, and the Honourable Ross Wiseman, Speaker of the House of Assembly and MHA for Trinity North.

“Clarenville has established itself as a notable recreational destination, attracting visitors from all over the province to visit and enjoy the spectacular scenery and top-notch ski and snowmobiling facilities. With this funding of $279,000, we are supporting work to improve recreational facilities, and to promote healthy lifestyles, tourism and a strong and productive community – all of which are key contributors to a vibrant economy.”
- The Honourable Charlene Johnson, Minister of Innovation, Business and Rural Development

Funding will support improvements to the resort’s infrastructure, the establishment of new tourism opportunities, and promotion of the region with the intention of also supporting the profitability of the regions’ accommodations and service providers throughout the winter season. The recreation initiatives will include the purchase of a groomer for the White Hills Ski Resort, construction of a snowmobile track adjacent to the resort, creation of a new snowmobile trail from Clarenville to the White Hills Resort, enhancements to the ski chalet, improvements to the trail system in preparation for the 2014 Winter Games, addition of new information kiosks, and creation of a smart phone app for visitors.

“Winter tourism has tremendous potential in our region and strategic investments in infrastructure such as this one will not only greatly enhance the visitor experience at White Hills but will support the growth of winter tourism in Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador. White Hills is more than just a fun place to visit; it has truly branded itself as a recreational destination strategically situated to engage residents and tourists in a unique experience that leaves them with a lasting connection to our area.”
- The Honourable Ross Wiseman, MHA Trinity North, Speaker of the House of Assembly

The Alpine Development Alliance Corporation will partner with the Town of Clarenville, White Hills Ski Resort, Clarenville Nordic Ski Association, East Coast Snowmobile Association, Autism Society of Newfoundland and Labrador and various accommodation operators in the region to advance tourism opportunities.

“Alpine Development Alliance Corporation is starting its 14th year of operating the White Hills Ski Resort and we are very proud that we have always managed to sustain ourselves without subsidization. However we have had our challenges and one of our major expenses has been the lease of a groomer. The funding from the Department of Innovation, Business and Rural Development will make a tremendous difference, as the funds that would normally go to groomer expenses can now go elsewhere, enhancing the resort’s long-term viability.”
- Corwin Mills, Chair, Alpine Development Alliance Corporation

Through sound fiscal management and responsible decisions, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is strengthening the business environment, encouraging the development of innovative industries and building a vibrant economy.

QUICK FACTS

• The Provincial Government is providing $279,000 to support winter recreation projects in Clarenville, led by the Alpine Development Alliance Corporation.
• Improved recreation and winter tourism initiatives will include purchase of a groomer for the White Hills Ski Resort, construction of a snowmobile track adjacent to the resort, creation of a new snowmobile trail from Clarenville to the White Hills Ski Resort, enhancements to the ski chalet, improvements to the trail system in preparation for the 2014 Winter Games, addition of new information kiosks, and creation of a smart phone app for visitors.
• The Alpine Development Alliance Corporation will partner with the Town of Clarenville, White Hills Ski Resort, Clarenville Nordic Ski Association, East Coast Snowmobile Association, Autism Society of Newfoundland and Labrador and various accommodation operators in the region to advance tourism opportunities.
• The Alpine Development Alliance Corporation was created to develop the White Hills Ski Resort as a vital economic contributor and regional recreational asset, and has worked to enhance visitor experience by increasing skiing terrain; replacing the ski/snowboard rental fleet, completing building improvements and upgrading the resort’s snowmaking system.

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2014 01 20                                        11:50 a.m.