Port Hawkesbury gets $189K for waterfront
PORT HAWKESBURY — The Town of Port Hawkesbury is getting a financial boost from the federal government to help upgrade its waterfront.
On Wednesday, Cape Breton-Canso MP Mike Kelloway announced a nonrepayable contribution of $189,909 through the Atlantic Canada Opportunity Agency’s (ACOA) innovative communities fund.
The investment supports Phase 1 of the town’s waterfront strategic plan, which includes the development of a waterfront park, retail and rental kiosks for businesses, signage and a public art installation, all of which will be accessible.
“Development of our waterfront and port is a top priority of the Town of Port Hawkesbury council,” Mayor Brenda Chisholm-Beaton said in a statement. “The funding provides us the opportunity needed to advance our vision for waterfront renewal.
“Our Waterfront Advisory Committee has worked diligently to work with community stakeholders and envision facilities to attract tourism, and advance initiative from business and industry. The waterfront and port define Port Hawkesbury and investment in our facilities will benefit residents of the town and Strait Area.”
Kelloway made the funding announcement on behalf of made on behalf of Ginette Petitpas Taylor, minister of Official Languages and minister responsible for ACOA.
“This project is a thrilling step forward in taking full advantage of the waterfront,” Kelloway said in a statement. “It is an exciting new opportunity for business ventures and will also play a role in showcasing the town’s reputation as a must-see destination, furthering its economic potential, and making the waterfront more safe and accessible.”
The province has also chipped in $35,000 to the project through the Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing.