Government of Canada invests in St. Peters Canal National Historic Site

St. Peters Canal Swing Bridge Officially Re-Opens to Public

November 16, 2017                        St. Peter’s, Nova Scotia             Parks Canada Agency

Today the Government of Canada, along with community members from St. Peter’s and Potlotek First Nation, officially re-opened the new two-lane swing bridge at St. Peters Canal National Historic Site following the complete replacement of this iconic structure. Rodger Cuzner, Member of Parliament for Cape Breton—Canso and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, participated in the ribbon cutting ceremony on behalf of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Catherine McKenna.

This ceremony marks the completion of a more than $16 million federal infrastructure investment project to replace the swing bridge at St. Peters Canal National Historic Site. Public Services and Procurement Canada managed the project on behalf of Parks Canada. In 2016, work on the bridge began and included road realignment, widening from a one-lane to a two-lane bridge, an updated pedestrian walkway, and new signage. The completion of this project marks the end of a 14-month construction period.

As part of this project, new interpretive panels are currently being designed which will allow Canadians and visitors to better understand the cultures and histories of Indigenous Peoples in Canada. These panels are being developed in collaboration with Potlotek First Nation and will highlight elements of the region’s history and culture. Parks Canada is committed to a system of national heritage places that commemorates the contributions of Indigenous Peoples and their cultures, as well as how Indigenous Peoples take pride in being stewards of the land.

Parks Canada is responsible for protecting and presenting nationally significant examples of Canada’s natural and cultural heritage. National historic sites reflect the rich and varied heritage of our nation and provide an opportunity for Canadians to learn more about our diverse history. By building strong connections to these places while working with community members far and wide, Parks Canada fosters stewards of tomorrow – people who know and care about our national treasures such as St. Peters Canal National Historic Site.

Investments in the preservation, rehabilitation, and restoration of our national parks and historic sites will protect our heritage and strengthen their appeal as destinations to celebrate our nation's achievements. As we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation, the Government invites all Canadians to experience and learn more about our environment and our history.