Residents in Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls will soon see upgrades and enhancements to the Nestor Falls Community Centre and new mountain biking trails at Bass Lake Park.
Kenora-Rainy River MPP Greg Rickford has announced a $360,000 funding contribution from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation for the two projects, to boost the area’s tourism sector and to promote economic growth.
“Today’s investment will expand recreational opportunities for residents to keep active and healthy and will help support and sustain our northern tourism industry,” said Rickford, who serves as the Minister of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry. “Supporting local communities helps create jobs and keeps the North competitive.”
The Nestor Falls Community Centre will see $180,000 to improve the accessibility of the entrance and emergency exits, washroom upgrades, a larger space for community programming and a relocation of their fitness equipment.
The Township is receiving the second $180,000 allotment for the first phase of its nine-phase bike trail development plan. Phase one of the work includes upgrading existing trails, and seven kilometres of new trails to create a multi-use network at Bass Lake Park, with an emphasis on year-round mountain biking, biking clinics, races and workshops.
“The Township of Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls is grateful for the funding support of the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation for these two projects,” said Mayor Norbert Dufresne.
“We are pleased that our residents will be able to enjoy the enhancements to the community hall and that the space, which is vital to community gatherings, will be able to better meet their needs.”
“We are also very excited that this funding will enable us to start construction on the highly anticipated Bike Trail network in Nestor Falls. These trails will be a great amenity for local residents, and will be a year-round attraction for visitors to our community.”
Ontario notes that since June of 2018, the NOHFC has invested $432 million in over 4,000 projects in Northern Ontario, helping to create over 6,200 jobs.
