GODERICH: SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO’S GATEWAY TO THEWORLD
Home to more than 7,500 residents, Goderich offers a wealth of scenic beauty, recreation, sports, arts, culture, and shopping. “There’s something for everybody,” says Mayor John Grace. “It’s also a vibrant business community with a dedicated and skilled workforce, willing and able to help people locate or expand their business.”
As the only deep-water port on the east shore of Lake Huron, the Port of Goderich is a vital hub for commercial shipping in southwestern Ontario. Rowland Howe, President of the Goderich Port Management Corporation (GPMC), explains that, “because we’re on the St. Lawrence Seaway system, you can reach the world from here”.
Wharf expansion to open up port capabilities
The port is popular for the transportation of grain, salt, and de dusting materials, but, “the lack of loading, unloading, and storage space was making it hard for us to invite anyone else in,” says howe. With the recent expansion of an additional four-acre wharf and newdock near completion, the Goderich Harbour will soon be able to accommodate new shipping traffic as well as a laydown area available to industry participants. “This will create space and capabilities we’ve never had before,” says howe.
“With easy flow and access, we’re creating a gateway for this part of southwestern Ontario and can offer port services for import/export,” says Howe, also noting other benefits. “Shipping by water is the safer, more secure, environmentally friendly, and cost- effective option that will keep truckloads off our roads.”
Innovative economic development initiatives like these are what differentiate Canada’s small urban communities and help them to stay competitive.