Nova Scotian communities revitalize downtown cores
News release
Wolfville and Windsor invest in accessibility, visitor experiences and community trails
November 24, 2020 · Wolfville, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
The Town of Wolfville and the Windsor Township Business Association are making strategic investments to strengthen rural Kings and Hants counties’ tourism offerings. The neighbouring Annapolis Valley communities are enhancing their downtown streetscapes to attract more visitors and investors to their downtown cores.
Federal government supports local tourism initiatives
Today, Kody Blois, Member of Parliament for Kings–Hants, on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, announced non-repayable contributions totaling $620,115 to help Wolfville and Windsor heighten their vibrancy and appeal as tourism destinations when it is safe to travel.
The Town of Wolfville is building a welcome centre with improved accessibility, increased visitor parking, an outdoor performance space, and is connecting the Harvest Moon Trailway to Main Street. The Windsor Township Business Association, for its part, is installing wayfinding signage and street lighting to enhance its streetscape.
Today’s announcement is further proof of the Government of Canada’s commitment to supporting Atlantic Canada’s tourism industry. ACOA is working to support the region’s tourism operators, strengthen local communities and help Atlantic Canadian tourism come back strong.
Quotes
“Atlantic Canada is a tourism destination of choice. That is why we are investing in key infrastructure that will make rural Nova Scotian destinations more attractive to visitors when travel restrictions are lifted, help grow the region’s tourism economy, and contribute to the vitality of these communities.”
- The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA
“The towns of the Annapolis Valley are renowned for their picturesque nature and vibrancy that attract many visitors every year. The Town of Wolfville and the Windsor Township Business Association are leading the way by strengthening their communities for both visitors and residents by improving main street infrastructure and encouraging more active transportation.”
- Kody Blois, Member of Parliament for Kings–Hants
“Wolfville’s East End Gateway offers an entrance to the town’s thriving historic centre. Starting here, visitors can enjoy activities in any season, including trailways, museums or visiting the Town’s commercial centre, where retail and food offerings pair well with local art, culture and the region’s signature wineries. The Town of Wolfville appreciates ACOA’s investment in our wonderful town.”
- Wendy Donovan, Mayor, Town of Wolfville
“The Windsor Township Business Association is so thankful and appreciative of the funding and support. We are eager to add more vibrancy and beautification to the downtown for the enjoyment of our community and visitors.”
- Dr. Adrienne Wood, Chairwoman, Windsor Township Business Association
“Tourism is a vital part of our economic picture and a vibrant downtown is a stimulant for regional growth and prosperity. Projects such as these not only encourage visitors to stay longer, but supports our small businesses that help define our region.”
- VanEssa Roberts, Manager of Community Economic Development, Municipality of West Hants
Quick facts
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The Town of Wolfville is receiving a $575,000 contribution to support new street lighting and the addition of a bus/RV drop-off space.
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The Windsor Township Business Association is receiving a $45,115 contribution for new signage to improve access to trails and parks, as well as additional picnic tables, benches and greenery to make the downtown area more inviting for increased foot traffic.
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The Windsor Township Business Association also received a $5,000 contribution from the Municipality of West Hants.
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The funding announced today is provided through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund, which helps build the economies of Atlantic Canada’s communities.
Contacts
Catherine Mounier-Desrochers
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Economic
Development and Official Languages
Catherine.Mounier-Desrochers@canada.ca
Chris Brooks
Communications Director, Nova Scotia
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-830-3839
Chris.brooks@canada.ca
Dr. Adrienne Wood
Director
Windsor Township Business Association
902-799-0796
drwoodnd@gmail.com
Kelton Thomason
Director, Parks and Recreation
Town of Wolfville
902-599-2441
kthomason@wolfville.ca
VanEssa Roberts
Manager, Community Economic Development
Municipality of West Hants
902-798-1708
vanessa@westhants.ca
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