Government of Canada invests in community infrastructure for Three Rivers

News release

Trail and marina upgrades will extend tourism season and bring more people to Montague Waterfront  

June 9, 2023 · Town of Three Rivers, Prince Edward Island · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

The Town of Three Rivers, in eastern Prince Edward Island, is known for its beautiful vistas and the many recreational activities along its waterways. The Government of Canada understands that investments in safety and accessibility for walkers and boaters in this area will help improve quality of life, enhance tourism offerings, and bring more people to downtown businesses.

Today, the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Member of Parliament for Cardigan, announced a total investment of $251,400 to the Montague Waterfront Development Corporation to support trail and marina improvements in Montague. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA.

ACOA’s contribution supported the addition of automated, energy efficient lighting along a two-kilometre portion of the Confederation Trail. This improvement will encourage increased use of the trail, especially during shoulder seasons. The investment also supported enhancements to the waterfront, including fueling station upgrades and new floating docks, which will draw more boat traffic, and attract more visitors to local businesses.

Today’s announcement demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to investing in community infrastructure to support sustainable economic growth and create new opportunities for rural business.

Quotes

“Visitors are drawn to Atlantic Canada for the breathtaking scenery, the welcoming people, and to experience the east coast way of life. We know that investing in the distinct strengths and assets of our rural communities is essential to forging a sustainable path for economic growth.”

-        The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA

“The Montague Waterfront is a real asset to our tourism industry in Eastern PEI. These investments build on the great work that Montague Waterfront Development Corporation and many local small business owners have done in recent years to make the area even more attractive for visitors, and a culturally vibrant place to live. The improved quality of living and the increased economic activity will support further business development and job creation for the community.”

-        The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Member of Parliament for Cardigan

“Three Rivers is very appreciative of the support we receive from ACOA for projects like these that benefit all residents and visitors to the Town.”

-        Mayor Debbie Johnston, Town of Three Rivers

“This has been an amazing opportunity for the community to benefit from the trails, along with promoting tourism to our area through the waterways and trails. There have also been improvements made to the marina and on the waterfront to provide a safer and more enjoyable experience for all users. We look forward to seeing more people utilizing our services and enjoying the beautiful surroundings that Three Rivers has to offer!”

-        Broeghan Carroll, General Manager, Montague Waterfront Development Corporation

“Congratulations to our friends in Three Rivers on the installation of light poles along the Trail. We were so pleased to support this project, which allows people to access the Trail safely, and during more hours, especially during the winter months. See you on the Trail!”

-        Eleanor McMahon, President and CEO of Trans Canada Trail

Quick facts

  • The tourism sector is a key contributor to the Canadian economy. In 2019, tourism generated over $104 billion in revenue and directly employed 692,000 people, including those in underrepresented groups like women, students, racialized people, and Indigenous populations.

  • The funding announced today is provided through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s (ACOA) Innovative Communities Fund.

  • Montague Waterfront Development Corporation was established to develop and operate the Brudenell and Montague marinas, as well as the Montague Waterfront Park and “The Station,” a refurbished railway building on the property. 

  • As the longest trail network in the world, the Trans Canada Trail connects Canadians and visitors to nature and to one another, through accessible and inclusive outdoor activities. Through collaboration and partnerships, the organization helps to build, maintain and steward Canada’s national trail, a unique system of connected urban and rural trails.

Associated links

Contacts

Marianne Blondin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Official Languages and of the
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Marianne.Blondin@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Sharon McGuigan
Manager of Communications 
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Sharon.McGuigan@acoa-apeca.gc.ca  

Broeghan Carroll 
General Manager 
Montague Waterfront Development Corporation 
montaguemarinapei@gmail.com 

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2023-06-09