The Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology and Scott Simms, Member of Parliament for Coast of Bays-Central-Notre Dame, on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, today announced a total investment of $343,678 for improvements to the Newfoundland T’Railway.
This investment will enable the Newfoundland T’Railway Council to upgrade several bridges along the trail system, which stretches 883 kilometres from St. John’s to Channel-Port aux Basques on the former Canadian National rail bed. The improvements, which will be made on the southwest coast, will enhance safety, ensure high-quality user experiences and help generate opportunities for more recreational activities and tourism development.
Today’s announcement further demonstrates the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Government of Canada’s commitment to communities, non-profit organizations and businesses, helping them to work through these tough economic times and thrive. Initiatives like this one will help grow the tourism sector and ensure that communities can fully participate in this province’s economic recovery.
Quotes
“We are pleased to support the T’Railway Council with this initiative that focuses on upgrades to an economic generator for many communities.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology
“T’Railway Provincial Park plays an important role in advancing and expanding our tourism season, and encourages active living and recreation on the trail. The re-decking of these trestles will allow explorers to further experience the unforgettable charm of our province’s southwest coast.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
“The Newfoundland T’Railway is a valuable recreation and tourism asset enjoyed by residents and visitors year-round. The trail system is linked to several rural communities throughout the province, which helps generate economic activity. Our support for this project will ensure users have the best experience possible, encourage more healthy and exciting activities such as mountain biking and help boost our tourism industry, especially during the winter and shoulder seasons.”
Scott Simms
Member of Parliament for Coast of Bays—Central—Notre Dame
“Investing in tourism infrastructure is essential to building healthy communities and growing a strong, sustainable rural economy. We recognize the significant impact COVID-19 has had on tourism and that is why we are investing in important projects to strengthen key assets like the Newfoundland T’Railway. Initiatives like this one will help Newfoundland and Labrador’s tourism sector come back even stronger than before.”
Gudie Hutchings
Member of Parliament for Long Range Mountains
“Once completed, these infrastructure upgrades will ensure the safety, accessibility and continuity of the trail for decades to come. The project will benefit all residents of the province in terms of personal enjoyment and outdoor recreation, as well as create new and continuing opportunities in the ecotourism sector.”
Rick Noseworthy
President, Newfoundland T’Railway Council
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Media contacts
Lisa Lawlor
Innovation, Energy and Technology
709-729-5777, 631-8155
lisalawlor@gov.nl.ca
Eric Humber
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
709-729-4819, 725-9655
erichumber@gov.nl.ca
Catherine Mounier-Desrochers
Office of the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages
catherine.mounier-desrochers@canada.ca
Paul McGrath
ACOA NL
709-689-5731
paul.mcgrath@canada.ca
Rick Noseworthy
Newfoundland T’Railway Council
709-725-1490