Railway Coastal Museum Exhibit to be Restored
News Release
Government of Canada funding supports infrastructure improvements at historic St. John’s museum
November 8, 2016 – St. John’s, NL – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
The Railway Coastal Museum will receive upgrades, thanks in part to funding from the Government of Canada. Seamus O’Regan, Member of Parliament for St. John’s South – Mount Pearl, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), today announced $30,250 in funding for the project through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program (CIP 150). His Worship Dennis O’Keefe, Mayor of the City of St. John’s, also announced the City’s investment of $50,000 towards the initiative.
The Newfoundland Railway Coastal Museum Foundation Inc. will upgrade the existing train car exhibit at the St. John’s museum, which is located at the site of the original Riverhead Railway Station in downtown St. John’s. The restoration will include covering the train car with metal sheeting to prevent further water damage and degradation of both internal and external components.
CIP 150 is providing up to $300 million nationally over two years to support projects to rehabilitate, renovate and expand community and recreational infrastructure as part of the Government of Canada’s activities to honour Canada’s 150th anniversary of Confederation. The program is delivered in Newfoundland and Labrador by ACOA.
Quotes
“The Government of Canada believes the economy is the number one priority, and cultural tourism and heritage shows great potential for growth. We are pleased to support business and community groups across Newfoundland and Labrador as they help strengthen the local economy. This project will enhance the existing tourism infrastructure for the enjoyment of tourists and residents alike.”
- The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA
“Investments made through CIP 150 help respond to significant demand for community infrastructure improvements and advances initiatives that improve existing recreational infrastructure. We recognize the value of enhancing business and tourism opportunities by leveraging community initiatives to spur economic growth, job creation and broad-based prosperity.”
- Seamus O’Regan, Member of Parliament for St. John’s South – Mount Pearl
"The diorama of the train car, decorated from the 1940's, provides visitors to the museum the opportunity to go back in time and walk along the platform and imagine taking a ride on the Newfie Bullet. The City of St. John's is pleased to contribute $50,000 in capital monies to this significant restoration project."
- Mayor Dennis O’Keefe, City of St. John’s
Associated Links
Contacts
Paul McGrath
Director, Communications
ACOA NL
709-772-2984
paul.mcgrath@canada.ca
Gordon Barnes
General Manager
Railway Coastal Museum
709-724-5935
gbarnes@railwaycoastalmuseum.ca
Kelly Maguire
Media Relations
City of St. John's
709-576-8491
kmaguire@stjohns.ca
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