Strategically located in the heart of the picturesque LaCloche Foothills, Espanola is emerging as a dynamic northern community serving a catchment area of 40,000.
While its ties with the paper industry remain strong—Domtar's fine paper mill continues to be the community's main employer—Espanola is extending its capacity as a regional hub, offering opportunities for economic development and a heightened quality of life.
“I am certain that my vision for the Town of Espanola to become the municipality of choice among small northern communities, for both residential and business development, will be realized,” said Cynthia Townsend, the community's new Clerk-Treasurer/Administrator.
Located a kilometre south of Hwy. 17 and along the Hwy. 6 corridor, the town is 45 minutes southwest of Sudbury, 40 minutes north of Manitoulin Island, and is a centre for training, business, retail, medical services, government, transportation, and distribution services for the LaCloche Foothills area.
The town has played host to a flurry of activity in the last few years. Economic development leads the way, with an ongoing industrial park expansion that includes 15 sites serviced with hydro and water services, as well as an extended paved service road that will provide main-artery access.
Plans continue for the construction of a steel-roll forming plant in the park by Kilganan Group, whose products will be used in the construction of residential developments, and a residential development of 19 home is being considered for the town.
The Espanola General Hospital will soon enjoy a major emergency room expansion, including a small operating room, conference room and facilities for doctors from the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, and enhanced triage space.
Leisurely pursuits are many, with walking routes, snowmobile trails, and swimming and fishing in pristine lakes amongst the activities available. A new, two-year health promotion strategy through the Community in Motion initiative will introduce aqua-fit, skating, gym time, and dance activities available for mature adults and provide youth with access to programming at the community's recreation centre.
With the charm of a small, rural town, and the amenities of a large city, Espanola offers the best of both worlds to business owners and residents seeking an enhanced quality of life.
