News Release

For immediate release 
September 5, 2003

Government of Canada provides funding to support Port Hood Main Street revitalization

Port Hood, N.S. -- The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of State responsible for Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation (ECBC) and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) today announced Government of Canada funding for the Port Hood and Area Development Association (PHADA) to implement a revitalization of the main street.

The applicant will install a series of historical streetlights along Main Street, as part of a plan to develop a continuous walking loop along Main Street down to the waterfront and back. The entire walking loop will be known as the Port Hood Promenade

“This project will provide a framework to showcase the historic treasures of the community of Port Hood and encourage the development and redevelopment of properties,” says Rodger Cuzner, MP for Bras d’Or –Cape Breton. “It will also improve the town’s infrastructure and encourage further investment in the community.”

“The installation of attractive street lighting is an important first step in the realization of the Port Hood Promenade,” says Charles MacDonald, 
vice-president of PHADA. “Our plan is to develop the community as a tourist destination where visitors can enjoy the historical aspects of the Main Street and have easy walking access to the waterfront beach area. We also hope to enhance the community's image as a destination for new residents moving to the Strait Area.” 

Incorporated in 1979, PHADA has a mandate to facilitate, coordinate and promote the economic development of the Port Hood area. It is managed by a nine-member Board of Directors and is responsible for many valuable community projects, including the establishment of both the first provincial day park and the community cable television station, as well as several community beautification projects. 

The total estimated cost of the project is $60,000. Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation will provide a non-repayable contribution totalling $45,000 through ACOA’s Strategic Community Investment Fund (SCIF).

The Strategic Community Investment Fund provides $135 million over five years to help communities in Atlantic Canada create an environment that encourages and enhances, among other activities, the development of strategic sectors such as tourism.

Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation offers programs in support of economic development initiatives and is responsible for delivering ACOA's programs on Cape Breton Island and in the Mulgrave area.


FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT:

Ralph Meechan 
Office of the Honourable Gerry Byrne 
Minister of State 
Tel: (613) 941-7241

Office of Rodger Cuzner, MP
Bras d’Or –Cape Breton
Tel: (902) 842-9763

Mary Ann MacCormick 
ECBC Communications 
Tel: (902) 564-7269

Charles MacDonald
Vice-president, Port Hood and Area Development Association
Tel: (902) 787-3214