St. Lawrence Seaway continues to contribute to Niagara Region growth and expansion
As part of a long-term growth and business diversification strategy, the St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation (SLSMC) is making prime industrial land available for lease on the Welland Canal.
The marine facility in Thorold, Ont., consists of six individual parcels of land and a 120-metre commercial dock that can accommodate Seaway full-sized vessels.
“Our goal is for this property to be used by multiple or single operators,” said Bruce Hodgson, director of market development for the SLSMC, a not-for-profit corporation responsible for the safe and efficient movement of marine traffic through Canadian Seaway facilities.
“Marine transport is the most efficient, cost-effective and environmentally-responsible way to move cargo of any kind. We’re excited to share this opportunity with companies seeking to grow their businesses with easy access to some of the largest markets in the world.”
The properties at Wharf 5 and 6 on the Welland Canal hit the market Jan. 27, through a request for proposals (RFP) on the MERX Canadian Public Tenders website.
Qualified companies can apply for long-term leases on all or a portion of the available lands, located just 17 kilometres from the U.S. border at Niagara Falls and 111 kilometres from Toronto.
The Seaway ships to more than 50 countries around the world and generates $9 billion in economic activity each year. There are 150 million people within an eighthour drive of most Seaway ports, and all are connected to highways and rail lines that provide access to major markets in North America.
“Our industrial and marine partners have transported more than 3 billion tonnes of cargo since we opened in 1959,” said Hodgson.
“We have a dedicated team of real estate and logistics experts who are responsible for business development. Using in-depth market research and strong industry relationships, we’re able to connect our tenants with local and international partners that help them reach new markets, while expanding their customer base and creating economic growth for the Niagara Region.”
The SLSMC is accepting proposals for the lands in
Niagara until March 31, and will host site tours in the week of Feb. 22.
“We are excited to launch this initiative,” said Hodgson. “This RFP presents an important step for the SLSMC in promoting cargo growth and diversification on the Great Lakes.”
For more information about St. Lawrence Seaway real estate, visit seawayrealestate.ca. To submit a proposal under the Niagara RFP, visit the MERX website for project 0000191511.