The Ontario government is providing Huronia Historical Parks (HHP) with over $1.5 million in capital funding to help repair and rehabilitate its facilities to encourage and reinvigorate tourism in the region.

The announcement was made at Discovery Harbour, Penetanguishene, today by Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries, alongside Jill Dunlop, Minister of Colleges and Universities and MPP for Simcoe North, and Will Baird, General Manager, Huronia Historical Parks.

“When the COVID-19 outbreak began, Ontario’s tourism industry was among the first and hardest hit,” said Minister MacLeod. “By investing in the general maintenance of our tourism and cultural facilities, we are ensuring that our local attractions remain world class destinations that attract both domestic and international visitors to Simcoe County, when safely possible. As Ontario deals with the impacts of COVID-19, it’s important that we invest in tourism in our local communities to support their short- and long-term recovery.”

This $1.5 million capital investment includes:

• Over $500,000 at Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons, a nationally designated historic site, to help conserve the oldest masonry in the province – including the Great Fireplace.

• $100,000 towards Discovery Harbour’s wharf redevelopment project that will help preserve the original fixed wharf that provides access to the tall ships for thousands of visitors annually.

“Our government recognizes the vital role that tourism plays in Simcoe County’s economy,” said MPP Dunlop. “This funding will help us preserve the attractions and maintain the centuries old historic sites so that today and future generations of Ontarians can visit Simcoe Country and engage directly with our history.”

“We very much appreciate this support from the ministry to help keep our attractions in the best condition possible. They are important tourism attractions in our community as well as incredibly important cultural landmarks,” said Will Baird, General Manager, Huronia Historical Parks.

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NEWS RELEASE
GOVERNMENT OF ONTARIO
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