The City of Welland has received funding up to $500,000 to create year-round tourist destination along the waterway.
The fund will be used to develop various activities to bring tourists to the city.
Mélanie Joly, Minister of Tourism, Official Languages and La Francophonie made the announcement today in Welland while concluding a two-day tour of the region.
The government has promised to spend over $1.2 million for six projects to enhance the region’s Indigenous as well as year-round rural and culinary tourism opportunities.
Mélanie Joly said the fund would help Welland host summer activities like canoeing and kayaking. While in the winter, the Welland Canal would host various snow activities including ice fishing, snowmobiling, cross-country fishing and shoeing.
Vance Badawey, Member of Parliament, Niagara Centre, said the federal government would help Welland achieve its goal of becoming a waterfront community.
The City of Port Colborne is getting up to $200,000 to enhance H. H. Knoll Lakeview Park. The funding will help the park to better accommodate special community and regional events including the Canal Day Marine Heritage Festival.
Earlier, Mélanie Joly announced funding up to $175,000 for the City of St. Catharines. The funding will support two annual Celebrations of Nations Indigenous Arts Gatherings, as well as 20 Indigenous–focused performances and films.
It is aimed at helping the Indigenous community showcase their creativity, traditions and history while growing tourist attendance and engagement in Niagara.
