With support from the federal and provincial governments, the Town of Souris is implementing plans to capitalize on opportunities that will keep visitors in the area longer, and create increased economic potential for local businesses. The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of National Revenue and Minister for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), the Honourable Allen Roach, Minister of Innovation and Advanced Learning on behalf of Minister Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development Minister, Ron MacKinley, today announced funding and project details for two infrastructure projects in the area.

“Solid infrastructure is the foundation for creating long-lasting communities and tourism potential,” said Minister Shea. “The Souris waterfront and the Beach Park Gateway feature exceptional scenery and create economic potential for the area. I am proud to announce our Government’s support to develop the Town’s existing infrastructure and further promote this outstanding tourism product.”

The Government of Canada, through ACOA, will invest $350,000 from the Innovative Communities Fund and $41,490 from the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund for upgrades to the Souris waterfront and marina. The Government of Prince Edward Island, through the Department of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development, will invest $143,125 from the Island Community Fund. The Souris Harbour Authority Inc. will contribute $28,750 to its Marina project. The Town of Souris is contributing $137,300 to the Gateway project.

“The Government of Prince Edward Island is pleased to support these projects with an investment from the Island Community Fund,” said Minister Roach. “Developing a beach and park on the Souris waterfront will support local residents and attract visitors to the area and increase economic activity for local business. Improvements to the marina will also attract more recreational boaters and contribute to strengthening the local economy.”

The Souris Beach Park Gateway project will involve a series of improvements with the goal of establishing a sustainable resident and visitor attraction, with commercial potential. Project work will include a new seawall, boardwalk and interpretive platform, as well as upgrades to commercial space and washroom facilities.

“This Beach Project is a great example of 3 tier government co-operation,” said His Worship, David MacDonald, Mayor of Souris. “Our limited municipal budget could not support such a project, but funding from Federal and Provincial sources have made it possible. We feel this project will enhance tourism visitation to our town and generate commercial activity.”

The Souris marina improvements will better position the Souris Port to attract and service boaters. Upgrades will include electrical work to better service large vessels, the extension of plumbing, and the repositioning of docks to accommodate additional vessels.

“The marina improvements support increased commercial activity at the port and in the town,” said Denis Thibodeau, Chairman of the Souris Harbour Authority. “The expanded docks will facilitate additional visitation from pleasure boaters and the recreational tuna charter fleet that bring increased tourism traffic to the area.”

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