Government of Canada invests in Niagara National Historic Sites

Federal infrastructure refurbishes War of 1812 buildings to preserve Canada’s treasured past

September 26, 2018                Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario            Parks Canada Agency

Parks Canada is responsible for protecting and presenting nationally significant examples of Canada’s natural and cultural heritage. Our 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.

Today, Vance Badawey, Member of Parliament for Niagara Centre, and Chris Bittle, Member of Parliament for St. Catharines, highlighted close to $13.6 million in federal infrastructure investments in the Niagara National Historic Sites, on behalf of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Catherine McKenna. This funding is contributing to restoration of several historic structures, improvements to visitor accessibility, and important shoreline protection measures specifically at Fort George, Butler’s Barracks, and Fort Mississauga.

The most notable work in progress is the protection of the shoreline from erosion at Fort Mississauga. Work began earlier this spring to implement emergency shore protection at critical positions to ensure public safety. With additional funding now secured, protection measures can be put in place for all 600 metres of shoreline, conserving the in-situ artifacts and other archaeological resources and ensuring public safety. Other work at Fort Mississauga includes restoration of the tower, two powder magazines, the sally port, and the main gate wing walls.

Recently completed infrastructure investments at Butler’s Barracks, included refurbishing the interior to create administration offices and meeting space. In the near future, the Commissariat Stores and the Junior Commissariat Officers Quarters will also receive structural work and repairs.

Visitors to Fort George National Historic Site can now enjoy improved access and safety with resurfaced pathways and roads, and the installation of energy efficient lighting for use at evening programs and events. As well, renovations to Blockhouse 3 have provided required office space and storage. Additional infrastructure work planned for this fall will ensure restoration of several heritage buildings and the grounds at Fort George and Navy Hall.

As a leader in conservation of built heritage, Parks Canada ensures the work taking place at these important national historic sites adhere to strict guidelines and standards in order to maintain the historic value of the site.

Following the largest consultation ever on Parks Canada, Minister McKenna put forward her priorities for Parks Canada through the Minister’s Round Table. The Niagara-on-the-Lake National Historic Sites are an excellent example of Parks Canada’s efforts to enable Canadians to discover, connect with and enjoy historic sites and national parks through innovative places and ideas. 

Millions of Canadians celebrated Canada 150 with free admission to Parks Canada’s places in 2017 and more Canadians than ever before had amazing experiences. In 2018 and beyond, Parks Canada is making discovering nature and connecting with our history easier and more affordable for families with free admission for youth aged 17 and under and new Canadians.   

- 30 -