Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development
July 22, 2015
Energizing the Economy Through Strategic Investments in Infrastructure
Revitalizing the Port of St. Anthony with $80,000 Investment
The Provincial Government is providing $80,000 in funding to the St. Anthony Port Authority to support future infrastructure enhancements. The investment will allow the port authority to complete a feasibility study focused on improving harbour access and infrastructure in order to maximize potential growth opportunities for the port. Funding is being provided through the Regional Development Fund and builds on previous funding of approximately $3 million for the authority.
“In order for communities to grow and thrive, they need sustainable infrastructure that supports their current and future needs, and our government understands the important connection between infrastructure and economic development. I am confident that this investment will assist the St. Anthony Port Authority with the assessment of the work they require to ensure that the port is an economic driver for the community and the region, now and well into the future. Developments of this nature are essential to maintain and increase the province’s population, and our government is committed to supporting such initiatives, as outlined in our Population Growth Strategy.”
- The Honourable Darin King, Minister of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development
Currently, wharf facilities at the port are constrained due to vessel congestion, as well as a lack of adequate depth required to accommodate larger vessels with drafts in the 10 metre range. The proposed expansion will help the port move forward with long-term infrastructure plans and the authority’s goal of generating additional revenue through increased traffic and new access for additional users. Enhancing port capacity is important to future development and is supported by the Provincial Government’s Arctic Opportunities Initiative. Such investment will help further position Newfoundland and Labrador as the “Path to the Arctic” and will promote economic development and diversification across the province as opportunities continue to emerge in the Arctic.
“The town, St. Anthony Basin Resources, as well as the port authority are planning for the future. We plan to use this information to further develop our harbour and become front and centre in all marine-related activities for the area. As we look forward to expanding even further into the world of international trade, we thank the Department of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development for their continued support.”
- Malcom Campbell, Harbour Master, St. Anthony Port Authority
Development and expansion of regional industrial infrastructure are key components of economic and business growth. The Regional Development Fund provides support by way of non-repayable contributions to organizations for the development and implementation of economic initiatives. Additional information on funding programs and how to apply can be found by visiting www.btcrd.gov.nl.ca/invest/funding/index.html
Live Here, Work Here, Belong Here, A Population Growth Strategy for Newfoundland and Labrador, 2015-2025 is the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s 10-year plan to support individuals and families. The strategy will ensure investments and programs are aligned to encourage individuals to choose Newfoundland and Labrador to live, work and raise a family. For more information visit www.gov.nl.ca/populationgrowth/
QUICK FACTS:
- $80,000 in funding is being provided to the St. Anthony Port Authority to support a study into the viability of port expansion.
- The St. Anthony Port Authority is a non-profit organization run by a Board of Directors with mandate to stimulate economic activity in the region.
- Funding for this project is provided through the Regional Development Fund. For more information on this and other development programs please visit www.btcrd.gov.nl.ca/invest/funding/index.html
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Media contacts:
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Tansy Mundon Director of Communications Department of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development 709-729-4570 tansymundon@gov.nl.ca |
Malcom Campbell Harbour Master St. Anthony Port Authority 709- 454-5622 harbourauthority@nf.aibn.com |
2015 07 22 2:45 p.m.