WHITNEY PIER (NS) – March 19, 2008 - The Cape Breton County Economic Development Authority (CBCEDA) will be able to implement a series of community improvements in the Whitney Pier area, thanks to an investment by the Government of Canada.
The project aims to revitalize the commercial district of Whitney Pier through the implementation of a façade improvement program for commercial buildings along Victoria Road. Enhancements are also being made to the PierPlex.
The $400,000 federal investment was announced today by Gerald Keddy, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).
“The Government of Canada is working in partnership to make stronger and more vibrant Cape Breton communities,” said Parliamentary Secretary Keddy. “This funding will improve community infrastructure, strengthen the economic base and stimulate development. It will make Whitney Pier a better place in which to live, work and invest.”
“CBCEDA is pleased to work with the community to facilitate this project. Whitney Pier is a strong community with a proud tradition. This project builds on this sense of community and gives residents something more to be proud of,” said Eileen Lannon Oldford, Executive Director of CBCEDA.
CBCEDA will receive the funding from Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation, through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund. A portion of the funding will be used to renovate the PierPlex. The remainder will be made available to local businesses on a cost-shared basis to renovate building facades in accordance with a standardized design that was developed in consultation with the community.
CBCEDA is a Regional Development Authority that works together with all levels of government to promote economic development throughout Cape Breton County.
Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation offers programs in support of economic development initiatives and is responsible for delivering ACOA's programs on Cape Breton Island and in the Mulgrave area.
INFORMATION:
Eileen Lannon-Oldford
Executive Director, CBCEDA
902-562-2201
Tom Plumridge
Acting CEO, ECBC
902-564-3846