Today, the Town of Conception Bay South, along with members of the federal and provincial governments, announced three funding projects aimed at enhancing tourism initiatives and boosting Conception Bay South’s economy.

The first project, receiving nearly $1.4 million in funding, will see the development of one of the Town’s most cherished tourism assets, the Conception Bay South T’Railway. The funding will go towards upgrading the last 3.2 kilometres of the 18-kilometre trail, creating a continuous, accessible active transportation route through Northeast Avalon. Included in the project is a trestle replacement at Seal Cove Pond, a critical piece of infrastructure along the route, which also provides access to Conception Bay.

The second project, receiving over $100,000 in funding, is for regional wayfinding signage, which will guide visitors through the town and improve access to local destinations and attractions. The signage project will be undertaken in 2023 to mark the Town’s fiftieth anniversary and highlight the nine communities that make up Conception Bay South.

The third project, receiving approximately $133,000 in funding, is an initiative of the Conception Bay South Parks Commission. A community root cellar and canning equipment library will be established at the Manuels River Interpretation Centre. This project will serve as a unique tourist attraction that reflects the agricultural heritage of the community and will support food security and sustainability.

The Town of Conception Bay South is extremely thankful to its funding partners: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, Infrastructure Canada, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, and Trans Canada Trail.

Quotes
“These exciting projects help preserve Conception Bay South’s unique identity and heritage, while also bolstering tourism attraction. They strengthen our goal to become a top day-trip destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and at the same time strengthen the social fabric and connectivity of our community. I am very happy for our Seal Cove residents today, who have long awaited an accessible trail system. We are very pleased that our partners in the Federal and Provincial Governments and to Trans Canada Trail for recognizing the value and significance of these projects for Conception Bay South.”
– Darrin Bent, Mayor, Conception Bay South

“Providing accessible, safe, and engaging activities that everyone can enjoy fosters strong communities, attracts visitors and creates a buzz around local businesses. By helping the Town of Conception Bay South complete upgrades to the T’Railway, install new signage, and develop a community root cellar, the Government of Canada is showing its commitment to building a vibrant and sustainable future for all Canadians.”
– Ken McDonald, Member of Parliament for Avalon, on behalf of the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA; the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities; and the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.

“As an economic generator for many communities throughout Conception Bay South, the T’Railway system has grown into a key asset for the region. Investing in economic development is a priority for our government, and this project to extend the trail and improve its signage will help enhance the visitor experience, supporting the growth of the local economy.”
– Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“We are proud to make these important investments, as they represent an opportunity to improve the lives of Canadians by contributing to local economies, to environmental sustainability and to the mental health and well-being of citizens. The work of maintaining, improving and developing the Trail for future generations simply doesn’t happen without the hard work and dedication of local trail organizations, local volunteers and our provincial/territorial partners. We are grateful to all across the country who contribute to building and maintaining local trails.”
– Eleanor McMahon, President & CEO of Trans Canada Trail