The Ontario (Canada) government has announced an investment of CA$7,270,000 to improve infrastructure at two of its most popular provincial parks, Killbear and Oastler Lake Provincial Parks.
As per a release, the funds will be used to build, maintain and revitalize infrastructure at these parks, with the aim of improving the visitor experience and boosting local tourism.
The Parry Sound-Muskoka area is home to some of Ontario’s most beautiful and frequently visited provincial parks.
Graydon Smith, MPP for Parry Sound-Muskoka, expressed appreciation for the investment, noting that it is vital to ensure that the parks have the amenities and infrastructure required to provide a high-quality visitor experience. This helps keep the parks sought-after destinations, which, in turn, contributes much to the local economy.
Oastler Lake Provincial Park will receive CA$5,500,000 for the renewal of the administration building, bridge, and main entrance road. Killbear Provincial Park, on the other hand, will receive CA$1,360,000 to electrify campsites and the water filling station, and CA$410,000 to replace the HVAC and geothermal systems in the visitor center. These upgrades will ensure a modern and enjoyable parks experience for visitors, improving their comfort and convenience while visiting.
According to David Piccini, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, “In 2022, Ontario Parks recorded more than 12.1 million visits, and overnight camping grew by nine percent over 2021, which goes to show the increasing demand for our beautiful provincial parks.” The ongoing investment in Ontario Parks infrastructure is part of the government’s effort to expand recreational opportunities for Ontario families, boost local tourism and strengthen the protection and health of local wildlife and the environment.
This as a positive step towards improving the parks’ facilities and making them more accessible and enjoyable for visitors. With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, outdoor recreational activities have become increasingly popular, and this investment is expected to meet the growing demand for outdoor experiences.
The Ontario government’s investment in Killbear and Oastler Lake Provincial Parks‘ infrastructure is part of its larger CA$41.7 million investment over two years to upgrade and maintain Ontario Parks infrastructure. This ongoing investment in the parks is a significant investment in the future of Ontario’s natural resources and is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy and the well-being of its residents and visitors alike.