June 12, 2006
Miramichi, New Brunswick
The City of Miramichi today
unveiled plans for a Miramichi Open River Museum. The
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) is investing
$3.1 million through the Innovative Communities Fund (ICF).The Honourable Greg Thompson, Minister of Veteran Affairs,
made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable
Peter MacKay, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister for
ACOA. "Our Government supports working with partners on
projects that will benefit generations to come," Mr.
Thompson said. "This eco-tourism initiative will highlight
the natural beauty of the area and benefit the local
economy by attracting more visitors to the region. A
strong, vibrant tourism industry in this region can mean
job creation, opportunities and economic growth for
Atlantic Canadians""The City of Miramichi is very pleased to be sharing in
this important funding announcement of a major phase of our
Open River Museum" said City of Miramichi Mayor John
McKay. "We believe this exciting project will have a
significant impact upon the revitalization of the tourism
industry in our region. We look forward to working with
our federal and provincial partners towards additional
exciting projects for our city."The ICF funding will assist the Miramichi Open River Museum
to develop a network of cultural, heritage and natural
attractions linked via water taxi and trails along a 55-
kilometre stretch of the picturesque Miramichi River.
Existing sites at Middle Island, Waterford Green, Beaubears
Island, Strawberry Marsh, Vye's Beach and Historic Water
Street will be enhanced, with improvements such as new
interpretive areas, signage & displays, kiosks, walkways
and historic displays. The project will serve to promote
the region as a tourist destination, benefiting businesses,
tourism operators and residents.ACOA's Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) focuses on
investments that lead to long-term employment and economic
capacity building in rural communities. For more
information on ACOA's programs, visit our website at:
http://www.acoa-apeca.gc.ca
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Peta Fussell
Senior Communications Officer
ACOA, New Brunswick
(506) 451-2667
Rupert Bernard
Deputy Mayor
City of Miramichi
506 773-1200
