AREA 506 benefits from tourism and infrastructure investments
News release
Federal government support will boost tourism and create an enhanced visitor experience
July 17, 2024 · Saint John, New Brunswick · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
Communities flourish when local businesses and organizations have the infrastructure and resources to create engaging, memorable experiences for visitors and residents alike. The Government of Canada is investing to help AREA 506 Ventures Ltd. attract visitors and enhance its infrastructure.
Today, Wayne Long, Member of Parliament for Saint John – Rothesay, announced a total investment of $145,000 for AREA 506. This announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA.
This investment will support accessibility and safety improvements to AREA 506’s existing infrastructure. Additionally, funding will help implement a digital marketing project, to attract more visitors from outside Atlantic Canada.
Today’s announcement highlights how the Government of Canada is contributing to Atlantic Canada’s momentum by strengthening our communities, creating new opportunities, and setting the stage for a strong, sustainable future.
Quotes
“We have the wind in our sails in Atlantic Canada. Organizations like AREA 506 are giving tourists something new and unique to see and do. Today’s investment is all about helping them build on their success.”
- The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA
“These projects are a testament to the innovative spirit of our region. The improvements and the digital marketing initiatives of AREA 506 will undoubtedly bring significant benefits to our community and attract visitors from all over.”
- Wayne Long, Member of Parliament for Saint John – Rothesay
“We’re so pleased to be able to showcase what New Brunswick has to offer for hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, and fortunate to be part of a larger team that recognizes the importance of public/private partnerships to create opportunities for strong tourism destinations in our region.”
- Ray Gracewood, President, AREA 506 Ventures Ltd.
Quick facts
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Incorporated in 2021, AREA 506 operates as an outdoor event site in the heart of the waterfront in Saint John and attracts approximately 200,000 cruise passengers and crew per year.
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AREA 506 is built entirely out of repurposed shipping containers, which has created space for 40 retail shops, a performance stage, a cruise ship lounge and plaza, and a green space for culture performances and pop-up exhibits.
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Funding for these projects was provided under ACOA's Business Development Program ($100,000 repayable, $45,0000 non-repayable).
Associated links
Contacts
Connor Burton
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development
and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Connor.Burton@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Amanda Jensen
Communications Officer
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Amanda.jensen@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Ray Gracewood
President
AREA 506 Ventures Ltd.
ray@area506.ca
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