News Release

NEWS RELEASE/COMMUNIQUÉ

For immediate release September 16 2002

SYDNEY MINES DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION RECEIVES ADDITIONAL FUNDING

SYDNEY MINES, N.S. The third and final phase of a community-driven, commercial-core revitalization will be completed over the next two years in Sydney Mines. Government funding for the project was announced during a press conference held today in Sydney Mines. 

The Sydney Mines Renewal Association (SMRA), in partnership with the Government of Canada, the Province of Nova Scotia, the Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM) and the private sector, will proceed with the final stages of infrastructure improvements to enhance the image and economic viability of the downtown core. 

The total estimated cost of this third phase of the project is over $2 million. The Government of Canada, through Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation (ECBC), will invest $740,000 via the Community Adjustment Fund (CAF). The Province of Nova Scotia will contribute $560,000 and the Cape Breton Regional Municipality will provide $300,000. The private sector will contribute the remaining $505,000. 

"Earlier phases of the revitalization process have served to create a spirit of optimism in the community. This renewed confidence has spurred private sector initiatives resulting in a more vibrant downtown. The Government of Canada is pleased to work in partnership with SMRA to maintain this momentum and stimulate economic growth and development," said Mark Eyking, Member of Parliament for Sydney-Victoria, speaking on behalf of the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and ECBC.

"There is no doubt that the development of a strategic plan and the commitment of the community of Sydney Mines to carry it out have ensured the project's success to date," said Cecil Clarke, Minister of Economic Development. "The community's continued commitment and the ongoing support of both the private and public sectors for this final phase are sure to lead to new opportunities and investment for future growth locally."

"Progress is being made throughout the Cape Breton Regional Municipality in terms of main street improvements. The success of such ventures is due to the determination and commitment of our citizens. The community of Sydney Mines is to be commended for its vision and diligence in successfully implementing this renewal project. They are demonstrating that we can refocus the local economy," said Mayor John Morgan of the Cape Breton Regional Municipality.

"A revitalized downtown core is the cornerstone to future economic opportunities for Sydney Mines. A major component for our success has been the involvement and support of both private property owners and all levels of government. Without these partnerships, this community could never have realized its dream," said Rev. Karen Ralph, Chair, Sydney Mines Renewal Association.

Phase Three will be the final stage of redevelopment of the town’s commercial core. The project will include upgrades to existing infrastructure, landscaping, lighting improvements, business façade upgrades, the development of green spaces and a signage program.

The Sydney Mines Renewal Association, comprised of clergy from five main churches within the community, was established in 1998. Its focus is to foster economic development and renewal projects in the downtown core of Sydney Mines and to improve the social and economic well being of the entire community. Revitalization of the downtown district is the present focus of the volunteer organization.

The Government of Canada funding provided to this project is part of the additional $10 million allocated to ECBC to specifically assist communities most affected by the closure of DEVCO. It is to be used for community-based development projects. 



FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT:

Mark Eyking, M.P. 
Tel:(902) 567-6275 

Carolee Sandell
Minister Gerry Byrne’s Office
Tel: (613) 948-1498

D.A. Landry, ECBC 
Tel: (902) 564-3617 

Mary Jane Fumerton
N.S. Economic Development
Tel: 902-424-1728

Rev. Karen Ralph 
Chair, Sydney Mines Renewal Association 
Tel: (902) 736-6217