The Town of Amherst is boosting economic development capacity and community pride through the creation of a revitalized downtown core, with support from the Government of Canada.
"The economy is our government's top priority," said Scott Armstrong, Member of Parliament for Cumberland-Colchester- Musquodoboit Valley, on behalf of the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of National Revenue, Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway. "Our investment today supports the development of a more vibrant, economically sustainable downtown Amherst. Community residents will benefit from more social and cultural activities, enhanced tourism and job creation."
The investment supports the implementation of Phase II of the Downtown Amherst Action Plan, which includes the creation of additional outdoor space, improved flow of vehicle and pedestrian traffic, aesthetic improvements and two new welcoming entrances to the downtown core.
"The Downtown Centre First Project is the centrepiece of Amherst's strategic priorities which Council established two years ago" said Rob Small, Mayor of the Town of Amherst. "This project will enable us to continue our downtown revitalization, supporting the overall development of Amherst as a regional service centre and enhancing community pride and spirit in the process."
The Government of Canada's $1,050,000 investment is in addition to the Town of Amherst's $2,550,000 contribution to the project.
The Government of Canada's investment is provided through ACOA's Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) which focuses on investments that lead to long-term employment and economic capacity building in rural communities.
FOR BROADCAST USE:
MP Scott Armstrong today announced an investment of $1,050,000 to support the revitalization of Downtown Amherst, through the creation of additional outdoor space, improved traffic flow, aesthetic improvements and two new welcoming entrances to the downtown core. MP Armstrong said the federal government's investment will support the development of a more vibrant, economically sustainable downtown Amherst.
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Christopher Brooks
Manager, Communications and Outreach
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-426-4790/902- 789-5184 (cell)
Email : Chris.Brooks@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
