South Bruce Peninsula is receiving over $200,000 from the Strategic Infrastructure Stream to support the Wiarton Streetscape project.
A release notes the funding is the result of an application sent to the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Rural Economic Development Program, which support economic development investment opportunities in rural Ontario.
The Wiarton Streetscape project includes new lighting, street furniture, bicycle infrastructure, landscaping and trees, public art, wayfinding signage, and public wifi.
Mayor Janice Jackson says, “we thank the ministry for investing in Downtown Wiarton, the businesses have endured a lot. This funding will allow the town to create more comfortable outdoor gathering spaces that will increase pedestrian traffic which will hopefully assist local businesses in their Covid recovery.”
The release adds the Streetscape project is gearing Wiarton for long-term economic success, as it will create a thriving downtown core and put the town in a positive situation for Covid recovery.
Danielle Edwards, Manager of Economic Development and Communications notes streetscaping changes the pattern of economic activity and stimulates new investment.
“It will also increase visitors which will in turn increase visitor spending,” says Edwards.