Expanding the tourism season in Newfoundland and Labrador creates more year-round opportunities to grow the economy and boost the region’s visitor potential. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is investing to help two not-for-profit organizations deliver enhanced, year-round outdoor experiences along Newfoundland’s west coast.
Today, the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, announced a contribution of more than $176,000 on behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador through the Regional Development Fund for the Newfoundland T’Railway Council and Tourism Southwest Inc. to help the two organizations carry out infrastructure improvements along a 120-kilometre stretch of the T’Railway from Corner Brook to Port aux Basques. Project activities include upgrades to ditching/culverts to ensure the resilience of the T’Railway’s western section in the face of increasing extreme climate events, as well as new signage, and widening trails to allow for better shared-use access.
The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister Responsible for ACOA, also announced non-repayable contributions of more than $460,000 through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund. Trans Canada Trail is also contributing $60,000 to the project.
Today’s announcement further demonstrates the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s commitment to bolstering the province’s tourism ecosystem so that visitors and residents alike can enjoy, discover, explore and benefit from the region’s many offerings and attractions all year round.
Quotes
“The Newfoundland T’Railway Council has been a great steward of this important piece of infrastructure. Maintaining and improving the T’Railway has economic spinoffs for so many businesses and communities across the province. The T’Railway, working in partnership with Tourism Southwest, will bring much needed improvements to this important tourism product, helping trail users on the west coast see a marked improvement once these upgrades are made.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology
“Western Newfoundland is an outdoor lover’s dream with biking, snowmobiling, ATVing and more. Your Federal Government is making sure the trails are as world class as our landscapes, which is good news for all the businesses and tourists that flock here every year.”
Honourable Gudie Hutchings
Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA
“The T’Railway is a significant recreational asset, benefiting residents, visitors, tourism operators, and local businesses. The planned upgrades will address crucial aspects, such as restoring sight lines, improving accessibility, and bolstering water management systems. In particular, the Port aux Basques section – serving as a vital gateway for increased traffic from other provinces – will undergo significant improvements to remain resilient against the impacts of climate change. The T’Railway is truly a gem for everyone in the province. We encourage everyone to get out and enjoy it and, with these upgrades, we’re ensuring that enjoyment for years to come.”
Rick Noseworthy
President, Newfoundland T’Railway Council
“The Newfoundland T’Railway is a vital part of Canada’s nationwide trail system and we are thrilled to join with the federal and provincial governments to support its continued development. The T’Railway is a perfect example of the impact that trails and outdoor-experience opportunities can have on communities. It is already a popular tourist destination that delivers significant economic benefits for the province and enhancing the year-round experiences along this beautiful trail will only expand its impact.”
Mathieu Roy
Chief Executive Officer, Trans Canada Trail
“Tourism Southwest welcomes the funding from ACOA and IET to upgrade the T’Railway Route in Southwestern Newfoundland. The project is a great collaboration between federal and provincial governments as well as the T’Railway Council and parks to continue upgrading the T’Railway route to ensure safety and maximizing the economic benefits of ATV tourism in the region. ATV tourism is steadily growing in Southwestern Newfoundland and these new trail upgrades and signage will improve the ATV riding experience in the region for both tourists and residents.”
Ruth Forsey-Gale
Chair, Tourism Southwest Inc.
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Learn more
Regional Development Fund
Newfoundland T’Railway Council
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