Eastern Ontario’s tourism sector continues to receive a boost with a $3.7 million investment aimed at enhancing visitor experiences and stimulating local economies. FedDev Ontario has announced funding to support 27 organizations across Eastern Ontario, focusing on diversifying tourism offerings and attracting more visitors to the area’s rich cultural heritage, including scenic waterways and historic sites.
The investment includes support for the restoration of the SS Keewatin, a steamship liner built in 1907. Originally owned by CP Rail, this Edwardian-era vessel was brought to Kingston and opened for tours. The project received $250,000 from the Tourism Growth Program, preserving a piece of maritime history and creating a unique attraction for visitors from around the world.
Mark Gerretsen, member of Parliament for Kingston and the Islands, announced the investment during a visit to the Great Lakes Museum in Kingston. The funding also supports Indigenous tourism initiatives in Eastern Ontario, with five projects dedicated to this sector. These investments are expected to have “spillover benefits” for local communities and economies.
The Great Lakes Museum in Kingston received over $77,000 from Canadian Heritage’s Canada Cultural Spaces Fund for renovations to its historic Pump House. The improvements include making the space more energy-efficient, restoring the historic interior, and adding a ramp to enhance accessibility. These upgrades ensure the preservation of an important historical site and its continued relevance in Kingston’s cultural landscape.
The Tourism Growth Program provides funding to communities, businesses, and not-for-profit organizations to develop innovative local tourism products and experiences. This approach to tourism development aims to spread the benefits of these investments across Eastern Ontario, with a focus on preserving historical sites and enhancing visitor experiences.
These strategic investments and collaborative efforts between government agencies, local organizations, and Indigenous communities are setting the stage for a vibrant and sustainable tourism industry in Eastern Ontario. By offering visitors diverse experiences while strengthening local economies, the region is positioning itself as an attractive destination for tourists seeking both natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
