North Rustico puts Plans in Action to Improve its Popular Seawalk Area
News Release
Cultural and infrastructure work will benefit locals and visitors alike
November 17, 2017 – North Rustico, PE – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Strategic community infrastructure investments in North Rustico’s scenic waterfront will help enhance tourism growth and economic development across PEI’s north shore. Thanks to collaborative efforts between all levels of government, new work will soon be underway to protect existing infrastructure and make the seawalk area more appealing to tourists than ever before.
The Honourable Wayne Easter, Member of Parliament for Malpeque, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), and the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage; together with the Honourable Pat Murphy, PEI Minister of Rural and Regional Development, today announced federal and provincial support for the Town of North Rustico to carry out improvements to its community seawalk area.
The work includes the installation of an authentic bronze statue of a North Rustico fisherman, the addition of park benches, a gazebo and viewing stand area, a pedestrian shore access ramp, parking lot upgrades and water drainage improvements, as well as bank stabilization work to secure existing infrastructure.
ACOA is providing a non-repayable contribution of $289,600 for the project through its Innovative Communities Fund, and the Department of Canadian Heritage is contributing $122,000 under its Legacy Fund. The government of Prince Edward Island is contributing $25,000 from the department of Rural and Regional Development, along with in-kind contributions from the departments of Transportation, Infrastructure and Energy and of Communities, Land and Environment. The Town of North Rustico will contribute $70,000 from its allocated Gas Tax funds, in addition to $64,500 in stakeholder donations.
This investment builds on commitments made by the Government of Canada and the four Atlantic provinces to drive economic growth in the region through the Atlantic Growth Strategy, which involves targeted actions to stimulate Atlantic Canada’s economy, including investments in key infrastructure projects that support long-term growth and position the region to capitalize on emerging opportunities.
Quotes
“The Town of North Rustico takes great pride in its rich history and traditions. It is always impressive to witness the hard work and community engagement of this town and how it continues to preserve and emphasize the area’s strengths that make it a must-see travel destination. I am pleased that these Government of Canada investments will help further strengthen the infrastructure in this rural community.”
The Honourable Wayne Easter, Member of Parliament for Malpeque
“Supporting community infrastructure is a top priority for our department. Investing in our rural communities’ framework and atmosphere improves economic activity and strengthens prosperity. The Town of North Rustico is home to many Islanders and visitors, alike. These investments will enhance the quality of life for residents in the area and for those who visit in the summer or throughout the year.”
The Honourable Pat Murphy, Minister of Rural and Regional Development
“The history, culture and charm runs deep within residents of our picturesque harbour town, and we appreciate that it’s these elements that draw visitors to our town. We recognize the importance of our quaint, yet busy working waterfront. With this support from the federal and provincial governments, we can focus on preserving and improving our popular seawalk area which not only draws visitors to the area, but keeps them here longer to eat, shop and simply enjoy the scenery and hospitality.”
Anne Kirk, Mayor of the Town of North Rustico
Quick Facts
-
North Rustico is a small harbour town on PEI’s north shore that boasts the kind of postcard-worthy scenery and traditional charm that has attracted visitors to the area for years.
Preserving and improving the community’s popular seawalk is an essential element of town plans as the waterfront contributes significantly to the Town’s tourism appeal.
The work on the waterfront is expected to be completed by late fall 2018.
Contacts
Jana Parker
A/Director of Communications
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-314-0874
Hillary MacDonald
Senior Communications Officer
Department of Rural and Regional Development
902-394-6368
Patsy Gamauf
Chief Administration Officer
Town of North Rustico
902-963-3211