Lacmégantic granted $1.93 million to rebuild downtown
The Town of Lac-mégantic was awarded $1.93 million in financial assistance this past Friday, August 29, to help rebuild and develop the downtown area that was destroyed in the tragic rail accident on July 6, 2013.
“Rebuilding the downtown area is an important step for the residents of Lacmégantic,” said Compton-stanstead MP and Minister of Agriculture and Agrifood Marie-claude Bibeau. “I am proud of the actions taken by our government in cooperation with the Town of Lac-mégantic to help revitalize the core of this strong, dynamic and resilient community.”
The financial assistance was granted in the form of a non-repayable contribution under the Support for SMES (Small and Medium Enterprises) and Organizations component of the Lac-mégantic Economic Recovery Initiative (LMERI), administered by Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED).
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A number of projects have already been completed under this initiative, including the construction and development of public infrastructures such as parking and the pedestrian walkway between the railway and Frontenac Street. It will also allow for the development of the Espace Mémoire Ancien Musi-café and the Générations and Dourdan parks.
The LMERI has a $35M budget and three components: the City Reconstruction Projects, Support for SMES and Organizations, and Investment Funds. Theese sections are all administered by the Mégantic region Société d’aide au développement de la collectivité (SADC), a local community development group.
“The Government of Canada has made sure to be there for Lac-mégantic businesses and community members,” mentioned Navdeep Bains, minister responsible for CED. “This funding reaffirms our commitment to supporting the reconstruction and economic recovery of the Town of Lac-mégantic.”
The announcement was made on behalf of Bains, Minister responsible for the Innovation, Science and Economic Development portfolio, which is made up of 17 federal departments and agencies, including CED and the other five regional development agencies.
“Public participation has been key to all of the projects carried out with Canada Economic Development’s support,” added Julie Morin, mayor of Lacmégantic. “The Canadian government’s support for rebuilding is essential, and it is helping us recreate landmarks and gathering places that have a positive impact on all residents.”