With support from the Provincial and Federal Governments, the Town of Grand Falls-Windsor is improving the Corduroy Brook Nature Trail Network to create a high quality tourism product, enhance user experience and draw more visitors year-round. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is contributing $100,000 towards the project, and the Government of Canada is providing a non-repayable contribution of $200,000.
Upgrades include replacing the trail’s existing pedestrian walking bridge with a new and improved one that will have a design life of 75 years. The 110-metre long bridge is the cornerstone of the trail network and provides connectivity across a wetland. The bridge replacement project also includes the construction of a new gazebo for the bridge.
Derek Bennett, MHA for Lewisporte-Twillingate, on behalf of the Honourable Christopher Mitchelmore, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Industry and Innovation, and Scott Simms, Member of Parliament for Coast of Bays-Central-Notre Dame, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, made the announcement today.
This investment builds on commitments made by the Government of Canada and the four Atlantic Provinces to drive economic growth in the region through the Atlantic Growth Strategy by helping the region’s tourism industry attract more visitors and create new jobs. This bold new approach is in line with Canada’s Tourism Vision, which seeks to make Canada a top-10 global tourism destination by 2025.
The tourism industry in Newfoundland and Labrador generates over $1.1 billion in visitor spending each year, and is responsible for over 20,000 jobs, representing 2,600 businesses. As committed in The Way Forward, the Provincial Government is aiming to double resident and non-resident visitor spending to $1.6 billion by 2020.
Quotes
“This government has focused on supporting initiatives that improve visitor experiences throughout the province. Investment in infrastructure on the Corduroy Brook Trail will allow for an enjoyable, relaxing outdoor experience for visitors and residents of all ages.”
Honourable Christopher Mitchelmore
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Industry and Innovation
“Our government is committed to the success and growth of Canada’s tourism industry, which is helping to create good-paying jobs and build vibrant communities from coast to coast to coast. We are pleased to support the Town of Grand Falls-Windsor in its efforts to increase tourism and economic development by strengthening key assets like the beautiful Corduroy Brook Nature Trail Network, which is enjoyed by area residents and tourists from around the world.”
Honourable Mélanie Joly
Minister of Tourism, Official Languages and La Francophonie
“I’m delighted that our government is helping the Town of Grand Falls-Windsor to improve the popular Corduroy Brook Trail Network, a valuable community asset that is helping to enhance the town’s tourism appeal and grow the local economy. Nestled in the heart of Grand Falls-Windsor, this spectacular trail system offers a unique and enjoyable experience for people of all ages. I commend the town and the Corduroy Brook Enhancement Association for their commitment to maintaining and enhancing this crown jewel in the Exploits region for the benefit of residents and visitors for years to come.”
Scott Simms
Member of Parliament for Coast of Bays-Central-Notre Dame, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA
“This is exciting and welcome news for Grand Falls-Windsor. The Corduroy Brook Enhancement Association has done a remarkable job creating and maintaining this beautiful system of nature trails through our community. It is a tremendous asset that sees extensive use. The trail has been identified as the most popular outdoor recreation facility in town, and trails have been identified as the third most popular activity when it comes to destinations for tourists. Hundreds of citizens and visitors walk the trail on a daily basis. The boardwalk to be replaced is a key piece of infrastructure that connects the trail through our protected wetland area. It’s a great day for our community and the Corduroy Brook Association.”
Mike Browne
Deputy Mayor, Town of Grand Falls-Windsor
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Learn more
Town of Grand Falls-Windsor
Provincial Tourism Product Development Plan
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Media contacts
Eric Humber
Tourism, Culture, Industry and Innovation
709-729-4819, 725-9655
erichumber@gov.nl.ca
Paul McGrath
ACOA NL
709-772-2984
Paul.McGrath@canada.ca
Mike Browne
Town of Grand Falls-Windsor
709-489-0407
mike.brown@townofgfw.com