Politicians gathered on Thunder Bay's waterfront July 20 to mark the finish of the first phase of a $58-million construction project.
The splash pad, arts centre, Spirit Garden, trail system, pier and other improvements at the Prince Arthur's Landing waterfront revitalization project have been open to the public for months, but the completion was a cause for celebration by federal, provincial and municipal officials.
Queen's Park put up almost $20 million for the construction with the feds contributing more than $17 million.
The City of Thunder Bay invested the balance of the money.
“Prince Arthur's Landing is an important gathering for the community and will remain a dynamic tourist destination for years to come,” said Peter Van Loan, MP for York-Simcoe in a statement. Van Loan stood in for Denis Lebel, the federal transport, infrastructure and communities minister.
“The Ontario government is proud to contribute to this project that ensures our renewed waterfront will become an important new community hub in Thunder Bay,” said Thunder Bay-Superior North MPP Michael Gravelle.
Mayor Keith Hobbs said the project has had a positive local impact through the involvement of dozens of local companies. “The sheer size and scope of this project is amongst the largest of our city's history, and it represents an investment by all levels of government and the private sector of well over $100 million.”
A second phase involving a 300-slip marina improvement is on hold after the discovery of historical sunken works, including a barge and docks that go back to the 1800s. A report on the next steps goes to city council this fall.
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