April 7, 2014 – Lancaster, Ontario – 

Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario)

Today, FedDev Ontario Minister of State Gary Goodyear, accompanied by local MP Guy Lauzon, celebrated the improvements made to the Cooper Marsh in Lancaster, Ontario while touring the new features now open to the public. The event marks the completion of several improvements that have elevated the man-made marsh into a prime location for wetland wildlife viewing.

Through our Government's Economic Action Plan 2012, the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund supported the Cooper Marsh Conservators Inc. with an investment of up to $125,726, toward total project costs of $288,826, to rebuild, widen, and lengthen boardwalks and build new viewing platforms throughout the marshlands.

Visitors can now view wetland wildlife safer and easier at the Cooper Marsh.

These improvements to Cooper Marsh are expected to increase the number of tourists, including bird-watchers and naturalists, which in turn will support the local economy. New boardwalks have been tailored for visitors with accessibility needs, making it safer and more accessible.

Since 2009, FedDev Ontario has acted as a co-investor, collaborator, convenor and champion with southern Ontario communities, businesses and not-for-profit organizations to actively promote the region and build a strong foundation of long-term economic growth.

Quick Facts

• First announced in Economic Action Plan 2012, the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund was a national short-termeconomic stimulus program that provided $150 million for the repair, rehabilitation and improvement of community infrastructure facilities across the country.
• The Fund is benefiting many types of projects, including parks, libraries, recreational facilities, community and cultural centres, tourism facilities, and other existing infrastructure assets that have a local community impact.
• Since its creation, FedDev Ontario has invested more than $1.1 billion, resulting in partnerships with more than 5,300 organizations and more than $1.5 billion in additional leveraged investments from almost exclusively non-government sources to support businesses, organizations and communities in southern Ontario.

Quotes

"Our government's investment, through FedDev Ontario, in the Cooper Marsh project has enhanced this unique location into a prime tourist attraction for viewing wetlands. When we improve tourism, we are strengthening our communities and building a prosperous southern Ontario."

Gary Goodyear, Minister of State for FedDev Ontario

 

"The improvements made throughout the conservation area will attract a higher number of tourists and locals from nearby communities, contributing to the local economy, and creating jobs and growth within this community."

Guy Lauzon, MP for Stormont—Dundas—South Glengarry