Federal government supports enhanced tourism infrastructure in Inverness County
Date Posted: 2020-03-04
Organization Name: Government of Canada
The federal government has announced funding of $999,170 to support the Municipality of the County of Inverness with various infrastructure enhancements to help grow tourism and benefit the local economy.
This investment is being provided through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s (ACOA) Innovative Communities Fund, which supports not-for-profits and organizations seeking to create, improve or enhance economic output, facilities and experiences.
“Strong regional economies are essential for Canada’s success and sustainability. Our regional development agencies are there to help businesses and innovators grow, succeed and create good jobs for Canadians,” said Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages Mélanie Joly, who is also the minister responsible for ACOA. “Our government is making investments that will enable communities and businesses in all regions of the country to grow and prosper. This will help our vibrant communities big and small reap benefits while showcasing Canada’s brand, centred on shared values of diversity and equality.”
Over the next three years, the municipality will implement a tourism strategy that will build on its new Canada’s Musical Coast brand. Multiple projects will be supported to enhance public spaces, including waterfront areas and trails.
Several Signature Spaces will also be created, encouraging repeat visitation and longer stays. A new wayfinding signage program, based on the spectacular views and opportunities for coastal adventure in the area, will help domestic and international visitors discover authentic and one-of-a-kind tourism experiences.
Essential services and amenities will also be upgraded to support community health and well-being for all ages while focusing on active living. This project is phase one in the implementation of recommendations from the 2017 Municipal Tourism Strategy.
“The Municipality of the County of Inverness has acknowledged tourism as a key economic driver for continued commercial and residential growth and is committed to enhancing and increasing the tourism product and experiences for area residents and visitors alike,” said County of Inverness Warden Betty Ann MacQuarrie. “This project will use placemaking to facilitate the development of high-quality public spaces that create meaningful, inviting environments. This will support the tourism industry by providing the basic tourism infrastructure to stimulate entrepreneurial investment, extend shoulder seasons to promote year-round visitation, and create jobs.”
Helping small, rural communities reap the benefits of global tourism has social and economic benefits. This investment is in line with the Federal Tourism Growth Strategy, which is growing and diversifying the sector by enhancing and developing unique tourism products and experiences that increase visitation to all regions of Canada.
“Investing in tourism infrastructure will enable Inverness County businesses to attract more local and international visitors, and improve the quality of life for residents,” said Cape Breton-Canso MP Mike Kelloway. “Our government is committed to helping Cape Breton and North Eastern Nova Scotia’s Mi’kmaq, Acadian and Gaelic communities showcase their vibrant cultures and the Island’s unparalleled beauty, while creating regional economic wealth.”
The Province of Nova Scotia is also providing a total of $398,500 towards this project while the municipality and community groups are providing a total of $477,153.
“The Cabot Trail is one of Nova Scotia’s most popular destinations and a huge draw for first-time visitors to the province,” said Nova Scotia Minister of Business Geoff MacLellan. “Improvements like these help ensure visitors enjoy a world-class experience while in Cape Breton.”