The city of Owen Sound has received a surprise gift of 50 thousand dollars to be used for repairs of the former CPR station along the east harbour.
The money is from an anonymous donation to the Ontario Heritage Trust, which holds a conservation easement on the property in recognition of its provincial heritage.
The trust recently contacted the City to advise of the donation and of the intent that the money be used to help restore the building.
Mayor Deb Haswell says the station needs a new roof and other repairs, so the funding will be put to good use.
The city’s goal has been to refurbish the long-abandoned building and lease it to someone who wants to open a business there.
The city issued a request for proposals for the building but was not successful in finding anyone to step forward with a viable idea.
Haswell and Community Services Director Pam Coulter both say the repairs that will be done with the Heritage Trust funding will go a long way toward attracting interest in the former station.
Work is expected to start before summer.
