Thunder Bay’s plan to build a new downtown and waterfront arena and convention hall received a $1.1 million boost from Ottawa and Queen’s Park.
FedNor Minister Greg Rickford and Northern Development Minister Michael Gravelle announced Feb. 20 their respective governments were each chipping in $577,139 to enable the city to complete a detailed design and schematics for a proposed Event Centre.
The arena and convention centre is identified as an economic priority by the City of Thunder Bay. According to a FedNor press release, this initiative will create five jobs for the duration of the project. Once complete, the facility is expected to generate approximately $20 million in annual economic benefits for the region.
“The new event and convention centre will draw new business and visitors to Thunder Bay’s downtown in keeping with the city’s revitalization plans,” said Rickford.
“It is an incredible opportunity to boost our local and regional economies, attract important events and raise the profile of this great city even further,” said Gravelle, MPP for Thunder Bay-Superior North.
“Identified as a local priority, this strategic initiative will be a catalyst for community redevelopment, while positioning the City and our region for sustainable growth and economic success,” said Thunder Bay Mayor Keith Hobbs.
