Souris Beach Gateway Park Continues to Grow
News release
The scenic entry to the town has expanded opportunities for residents, businesses and visitors
May 31, 2018 – Souris, PE – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Last year was the best year ever for tourism in Canada, as we welcomed a record of 20.8 million international visitors to our shores. The tourism industry is an important economic driver in our communities, as one in 10 jobs in Canada is associated with the visitor economy. Investing in tourism in both big cities and small towns throughout Atlantic Canada is essential to growing this important economic sector for Canadians. By investing in our tourism sector, we attract new visitors, grow businesses and create new ones, generating economic growth and good middle-class jobs.
That is why the governments of Canada and Prince Edward Island have invested $195,000 to help the Town of Souris expand its popular Gateway Park. Visitors, residents and businesses alike will benefit from enhanced services and increased economic opportunities resulting from the second phase of development at the Park.
To celebrate Tourism Week, the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri Food, 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 Bardish Chagger, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Minister of Small Business and Tourism, along with the Honourable Pat Murphy, Minister of Rural and Regional Development, today announced funding for this project.
Through its Innovative Communities Fund, ACOA provided a contribution of $100,000 to the Town of Souris supporting the expansion of the Souris Beach Gateway Park. The project involved the addition of two new commercial outlets, a deck enclosure, expanded boardwalk and fencing, as well as more parking and signage. The playground was also upgraded, including a new splash pad and washroom renovations.
The Government of Prince Edward Island contributed $95,000 to assist with the project.
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 the economy, including supporting key infrastructure projects that support long-term growth and position the region to capitalize on emerging opportunities.
Today’s announcement comes as Canada celebrates Tourism Week from May 27 to June 2, 2018.
Quotes
“Entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized businesses make the Canadian economy tick, and modern infrastructure acts as the fuel that keeps our communities viable and attractive for visitors and businesses. I’m pleased to announce this Government of Canada funding to support Souris in its ongoing efforts to build on local strengths and highlight what this rural community has to offer. ”
The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and Member of Parliament for Cardigan
“Atlantic Canada’s incredibly rich cultures, history and natural beauty are at the heart of many of the tourism attractions across the region, which our government recognizes as important contributors to our economy. The Government of Canada is proud to support projects like the Gateway Park with the Town of Souris which will give visitors even more reason to stay even longer in the area, while also supporting local entrepreneurs and businesses.”
The Honourable Bardish Chagger, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Minister of Small Business and Tourism
“The expansion to Gateway Park will give visitors and residents alike a comfortable, accessible and enjoyable venue to take in any number of activities or to simply enjoy the view. Investment in this type of infrastructure makes communities more attractive to businesses and families, and that helps them grow and prosper.”
The Honourable Pat Murphy, Minister of Rural and Regional Development
“With the help of the Government of Canada and the Province of PEI our Souris Beach Gateway Park has become a destination point for residents and for visitors. The parking lot is full to capacity every day during the summer months, our shops offer a selection of top quality Island products and services, the playground and boardwalk are also a huge asset to our park. We see a prosperous and successful future for this newly enhanced Gateway Park.”
Dr. Steve O’Brien, Mayor, Town of Souris
Quick facts
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ACOA invested $350,000, through the Innovative Communities Fund, in the first phase of the Souris Beach Gateway Park, which was completed in 2014.
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This successful initiative provided an opportunity for visitors to stay longer in the area by improving visitors’ first impression and adding commercial spaces at the Park.
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Phase two builds on these improvements to capitalize on traffic coming through the picturesque and now busy gateway.
Contacts
Chris Brooks
Director of Communications
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-566-7569
Andrew Sprague
Senior Communications Officer
Department of Economic Development and Tourism
902-368-5535
Shelley LaVie
Town of Souris
902-687-2157