A local business and tourism agency has been able to upgrade its space thanks to a federal government grant.
The Southern Georgian Bay Chamber of Commerce received $120,000 to renovate and expand its community information centre as a recent funding recipient of the Canada Community Revitalization Fund.
“The grant has enabled us to open up our office with a goal of making it visitor-centric,” chamber general manager Cathy Tait told MidlandToday.
“We have added seating both inside and outside, more display cabinets to promote our local businesses, attractions and events and we now have a booking kiosk for visitors so they can book a hotel, a restaurant or tickets to an attraction.”
Tait said chamber members will also now have additional space to display brochures and to promote their products and services.
“As well, our new outdoor gazebos will allow members to set up a pop-up tent during special events,” Tait said. “For example, we will be inviting members to set up tables during the Butter Tart Festival.”
Designed to boost community infrastructure across southern Ontario, 415 projects benefited from more than $140 million in federal funding, which is part of a larger $500-million national total amount.
The fund’s creation traces its roots back to the pandemic when communities experienced a significant reduction in foot traffic as they took precautions to stay safe. The two years of funding is designed to help communities build new infrastructure and “bring people back together, supporting connection and recreation that are integral to mental and physical well-being.”
Tait said the funding has also allowed the chamber to create ways to illustrate the region’s rich history.
“We have also added large print storyboards inside and soon to be outside as well,” she said. “These storyboards focus on our rich history and heritage in the area, including the Indigenous and Francophone cultures. It is important for visitors and residents to know about our roots!”
Tait said the overall goal with the renovation was to create a community hub that’s accessible and welcoming to everyone.
“New digital displays and booking kiosks will educate visitors on Indigenous and Francophone heritage in North Simcoe and drive revenue to local businesses,” Tait said, “while outdoor structures will allow for local artisans to host seasonal markets.
“The facility will also enhance its accessibility with ramps, door openers and large print signage.”
Other organizations receiving funding include the Royal Canadian Geographical Society in Ottawa, which received nearly $490,000 to install a ‘Reconciliation Garden’.
“Visioned, created and cared for by Indigenous community members, this garden will be home to native species and provide opportunities for the public to learn about traditional uses of the plants and enjoy the green space,” the federal government noted in a release.
Filomena Tassi, minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, said the government is committed to bringing communities together by building public infrastructure.
“These investments have helped over 415 communities and organizations across southern Ontario bring visitors back to their region by modernizing public spaces for all,” Tassi said in a release. “Together we are putting people first and growing local economies that work for everyone.”
