Casey and Santa Hit Town the Same Week

The Member of Parliament for Cumberland Colchester came to Pugwash today, and he brought some special gifts from the federal government with him.

Bill Casey announced grants that could lead to a brighter future for the coastal community.

The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) will contribute $60,000 to the detailed design of the proposed Waterfront Development Plan, which includes a harbour centre, expanded boardwalks, sidewalks, trails, and the multi-purpose centre which will house the new library.

The Northumberland Curling Club will receive a grant of $47,635 to spruce up, pave the parking lot, re-side the exterior with steel, improve ice making, and use more energy efficient lighting.

The Northumberland Golf Club will receive $24,250 for clubhouse renovations.

Meanwhile, the Peace Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion will use a grant of $7,500 to install a new steel roof.

All the contributions are grants with no repayment required.

The MP says it is part of a new federal vision to support small communities. Casey says that is most important to him because his riding is all about small communities.

He says these announcements are more about the future of Pugwash, adding, “I believe it is an opportunity for Pugwash to achieve its potential.”

The community has always been on the cusp but never quite made the leap forward. Casey says, “Pugwash has always had great assets but never could quite get its assets to deliver its best.”

The MP shares the vision of many locals who see the harbour as the community’s greatest asset. Casey Says, “A properly developed waterfront could attract tourists by road and by water. Pugwash is strategically located for water visitors.”

Casey says there are more projects in the works for other Six Rivers communities, but he declined to reveal where they are on the government approval process.