"This is a significant investment toward the continued re-development of the Summerside waterfront and reflects our government's commitment toward increasing tourism within the city," said Minister Deighan.

The contribution will be used to construct what will be known as the Shipyard Market. It will be located on the site of the former shipyard along Water Street West. The building is designed to reflect the street scape of the late 1800's, when shipbuilding was a huge contributor to the economy of Summerside. The market will also service the pedestrian traffic on the recently completed waterfront baywalk in Summerside's west end.

"The Shipyard Market will be a valuable addition to the waterfront and will complement the existing and future businesses in that area," said Ms. MacDonald. "The people of Summerside have determined that tourism development is a priority and I am pleased to work with the various committees on these successful initiatives." Components of the Shipyard Market will include water sports, gift shop, food and beverage outlets, retail kiosks, entertainment and office lease space.

"We are pleased to work closely with the Government of Prince Edward Island as we continue to explore a sustainable approach to tourism in the Summerside area," said Don Groom, chair of the Summerside Sustainable Tourism Initiative, a sub-committee of Summerside Tourism Ltd., a non-profit organization representing the major tourism operators in the greater Summerside area.

"In 2001, we responded to declining tourism statistics and decided a new approach was needed. It was determined through resident and visitor surveys that access to water was the most popular development initiative, and we are pleased to say our approach is working."

Future projects will include a boardwalk from the east end of the city (which hosts a valuable eco system) through the city harbour front and ending on the west end at the Duck Pond. Plans also include access to several areas around the waterfront including the Indian Head Lighthouse. Both will be made available via the introduction of a passenger ferry boat. The final transportation linkage is a street trolley which will transport people to a number of points along the boardwalk and the downtown heritage properties.