Municipality of the County of Inverness to improve tourism offerings
News release
Three-year project will build and enhance tourism infrastructure in Inverness County with help from the Government of Canada
March 3, 2020 – Port Hood, Nova Scotia – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
The Municipality of the County of Inverness is a must-see for international visitors to Cape Breton. Over the next three years, the Municipality will implement a tourism strategy that will build on its new Canada’s Musical Coast brand. Multiple projects will be supported to enhance public spaces, including waterfront areas and trails.
Several Signature Spaces will also be created, encouraging repeat visitation and longer stays. A new wayfinding signage program, based on the spectacular views and opportunities for coastal adventure in the area, will help domestic and international visitors discover authentic and one-of-a-kind tourism experiences. Essential services and amenities will also be upgraded to support community health and well-being for all ages while focusing on active living. This project is phase one in the implementation of recommendations from the 2017 Municipal Tourism Strategy.
Investments in Tourism Drive Economic Growth
René Arseneault, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Mike Kelloway, Member of Parliament for Cape Breton - Canso, today announced funding of $999,170 to support the Municipality of the County of Inverness with various infrastructure enhancements to help grow tourism and benefit the local economy. This investment is being provided through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s (ACOA) Innovative Communities Fund, which supports not-for-profits and organizations seeking to create, improve or enhance economic output, facilities and experiences.
Helping small, rural communities reap the benefits of global tourism has social and economic benefits. This investment is in line with the Federal Tourism Growth Strategy, which is growing and diversifying the sector by enhancing and developing unique tourism products and experiences that increase visitation to all regions of Canada.
Quotes
“Strong regional economies are essential for Canada’s success and sustainability. Our regional development agencies are there to help businesses and innovators grow, succeed and create good jobs for Canadians. Our government is making investments that will enable communities and businesses in all regions of the country to grow and prosper. This will help our vibrant communities big and small reap benefits while showcasing Canada’s brand, centred on shared values of diversity and equality.”
- The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA
“Investing in tourism infrastructure will enable Inverness County businesses to attract more local and international visitors, and improve the quality of life for residents. Our government is committed to helping Cape Breton and North Eastern Nova Scotia’s Mi’kmaq, Acadian and Gaelic communities showcase their vibrant cultures and the Island’s unparalleled beauty, while creating regional economic wealth.”
- Mike Kelloway, Member of Parliament for Cape Breton – Canso
“The Cabot Trail is one of Nova Scotia’s most popular destinations and a huge draw for first-time visitors to the province. Improvements like these help ensure visitors enjoy a world-class experience while in Cape Breton.”
- The Honourable Geoff MacLellan, Minister of Business, Province of Nova Scotia
“The Municipality of the County of Inverness has acknowledged tourism as a key economic driver for continued commercial and residential growth and is committed to enhancing and increasing the tourism product and experiences for area residents and visitors alike. This project will use placemaking to facilitate the development of high-quality public spaces that create meaningful, inviting environments. This will support the tourism industry by providing the basic tourism infrastructure to stimulate entrepreneurial investment, extend shoulder seasons to promote year-round visitation, and create jobs.”
- Betty Ann MacQuarrie, Warden, Municipality of the County of Inverness
Quick facts
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Tourism supports more than 1.8 million jobs in Canada, with 56% of those being in rural areas.
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Cape Breton was named Canada’s best island by Travel + Leisure magazine for the second year in a row. Cape Breton is ranked #8 on the world’s best island list, according to reader polls.
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Inverness County is renowned for its Celtic, Acadian and Mi’kmaq music and culture, warm water beaches, its scenic routes, including the world-famous Cabot Trail and two top-rated golf courses: Cabot Cliffs and Cabot Links.
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The Province of Nova Scotia is also providing a total of $398,500 towards this project.
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The Municipality and community groups are providing a total of $477,153.
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Contacts
Alexander Cohen
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages
alexander.cohen@canada.ca
Chris Brooks
Director, Communications and Outreach
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-426-9417 / 902-830-3839 (cell)
chris.brooks@canada.ca
Shannon Kerr
Communications and Media Relations Advisor
Province of Nova Scotia
902-717-6061
shannon.kerr@novascotia.ca
Karolyn Aucoin
Communications & Community Engagement Specialist
Municipality of the County of Inverness
902-258-7513
karolyn.aucoin@invernesscounty.ca
Stay connected
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