Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development
June 9, 2015

Supporting the Tourism Industry Through Sound Investments

Over $362,000 in Funding Supports East Coast Trail Enhancements

The East Coast Trail Association has received $362,055 to support long-term sustainability efforts, market development activities and trail improvements. Funding will support new trail signage, expanded parking, improved marketing initiatives, as well as improved trail mapping. The Honourable Keith Hutchings, Minister of Municipal and Intergovernmental Affairs and MHA for Ferryland, made the announcement during the opening celebrations of the 15th Annual Tely Hike in support of the East Coast Trail this past Saturday, June 6, in Mobile.

�The East Coast Trail plays a significant role in contributing to the development and sustainability of the community-based businesses and attractions that hikers and tourists visit as they enjoy the trail system. The Provincial Government is proud to contribute over $362,000 towards ongoing trail improvements, bringing our support for the trail network to almost $1.5 million since 2008.�
- The Honourable Darin King, Minister of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development

With over 260 kilometres of trail system passing through more than 30 communities, stretching from Flatrock to Cappahayden, the East Coast Trail has become a popular tourism attraction that offers a unique wilderness hiking experience.

�The East Coast Trail brings new friends and explorers to the doorsteps of our communities, introducing them to the east coast�s stunning vistas and the unforgettable charm of the Newfoundland and Labrador outdoors. The opportunities the trail provides wouldn�t be possible without the commitment of the East Coast Trail Association and enthusiastic community of volunteers that make the trail the wonderful experience it has become for users.�
- Minister King

The East Coast Trail contributed $3.5 million out of the over $1 billion in tourism spending that occurred in Newfoundland and Labrador in 2014.

QUICK FACTS

• The East Coast Trail Association has been provided with $362,055 in funding to support trail operations and improvements.
• The East Coast Trail was named one of the world�s Top 12 Adventure Destinations by the National Geographic Society in 2012.
• Information on the East Coast Trail can be found by visiting: www.eastcoasttrail.ca .

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Media contact:

Tansy Mundon Director of Communications Department of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development 709-729-4570 tansymundon@gov.nl.ca

2015 06 09                             10:50 a.m.