Newfoundland and Labrador’s tourism industry is vital to the provincial economy and supports thousands of local jobs and businesses. That is why the Governments of Newfoundland and Labrador and Canada are investing in two non-profit organizations on the Bonavista Peninsula, to improve visitor activities in the area.

Today, the Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology; along with Churence Rogers, Member of Parliament for Bonavista-Burin-Trinity, on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA, announced a total combined contribution of $1,759,529 to support two projects that will enhance popular tourism sites and attractions in the region.

• The Bonavista Historic Townscape Foundation Inc. is receiving a non-repayable contribution of $998,489 from ACOA, along with a $485,790 investment from the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology. These investments support upgrades to the Alexander Bridge House and nearby street area. The project will improve public safety, offer a shared space for tourism operators and create a new, engaging visitor experience showcasing the region’s history and architecture.
• The Bonavista-Trinity Regional Chamber of Commerce is receiving a non-repayable contribution of $214,500 from ACOA, along with a $60,750 investment from the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology. These investments support initiatives that will help build a stronger brand for the Bonavista Peninsula’s tourism industry, extend the tourism season, and encourage visitors to stay in the area longer.

Support for this activity demonstrates a commitment to arts and culture, tourism, and social enterprise in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Quotes
“Collaboration by many industry partners in this area of the province has resulted in the ongoing implementation of economic development initiatives, often linked to culture, heritage, geology and the natural environment. We look forward to the results of these projects, which aim to support further growth in the region.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“Through the Provincial Government’s Cultural Economic Development Program, we are proud to continue to support the arts in the region and enhance visitor experiences, such as the Garrick Summer Performance Series, on the Bonavista Peninsula. Increased support will only add to the already spectacular cultural experiences the Bonavista Peninsula offers to residents and tourists alike.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“Before the pandemic, Atlantic Canada’s beautiful landscapes, delicious food and rich cultural experiences attracted millions of visitors each year, creating good local jobs and a strong economy. By enhancing visitor experiences on the Bonavista Peninsula, we are creating new opportunities for communities, businesses and tourism operators. Through our plan for a swift recovery, and by supporting initiatives like these, we are preparing for economic growth and success.”
Honourable Mélanie Joly
Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA

“The Bonavista Peninsula has a lot to be proud of, and has grown into a popular tourist destination. With the Government of Canada’s support, the Bonavista Historic Townscape Foundation and the Bonavista-Trinity Regional Chamber of Commerce are keeping the momentum going and creating more activities to continue building on the accomplishments of the region.”
Churence Rogers
Member of Parliament for Bonavista-Burin-Trinity

“Bridge House will indeed add to the tourism infrastructure and generate new economic activity for the Bonavista Peninsula, but its restoration is also important for other reasons. This iconic structure, built over 200 years ago, represents a transformational period in Newfoundland’s history when the bulk of English and Irish immigration occurred, creating a large pool of permanent settlers. Resident merchants and fishers eventually displaced the longstanding English migratory fishery, and came to dominate this international trade. Public access to Bridge House will allow people to learn more about these themes, and how Bonavista’s built heritage evolved over time once permanent settlement was established.”
David Bradley
Chair, Bonavista Historic Townscape Foundation Inc.

“The Bonavista-Trinity Regional Chamber of Commerce is very much grateful for the continued support from both of our funding partners- Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology. With this federal and provincial investment, we can now focus on amplifying our peninsula’s marketing activities to make it one of Canada’s top destinations for visitors, nationally and internationally.”
John Norman
Mayor of Bonavista and President of the Bonavista-Trinity Regional Chamber of Commerce

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Bonavista Historic Townscape Foundation

Bonavista-Trinity Regional Chamber of Commerce

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Media contacts
Eric Humber
Industry, Energy and Technology
709-729-5777, 725-9655
erichumber@gov.nl.ca

Kathryn Summers
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
709-729-4819, 699-6147
kathrynsummers@gov.nl.ca

Catherine Mounier-Desrochers
Office of the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages
Catherine.Mounier-Desrochers@canada.ca

Julie Afonso
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
709-743-5835
julie.afonso@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Melissa Boyce
Bonavista Historic Townscape Foundation Inc.
709-468-5777
melissaboycebhtf@gmail.com

John Norman
Bonavista-Trinity Regional Chamber of Commerce
709-468-8696
Johnnorman21@gmail.com