The Ontario government is providing $5 million to help expand the runway at the Parry Sound and Area Municipal Airport.
It is also going to increase the number of business park lots, which will create jobs and promote economic development in Seguin Township.
“By making these types of investments we are laying the foundation for our economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario. “Individuals, families and businesses in Parry Sound have been struggling, and this airport expansion will help by attracting more investment, creating jobs and bolstering the local economy.”
The runway extension will increase airport capacity and accommodate larger aircraft, enabling more passenger and cargo transportation. The additional airside lots in the neighbouring airport business park will attract new companies to the area and help local businesses to expand and create more jobs.
“I want to offer my sincere congratulations to Mayor MacDiarmid and the airport commission and management on their success,” said Norm Miller, MPP for Parry Sound-Muskoka. “This project will exponentially expand the economic development potential of the airport and the industrial park. Previous expansions have brought more jobs and have been an economic boon to the entire region. All of this is a great credit to the management of the airport. I want to thank Premier Ford and Minister Rickford for their support and efforts on behalf of the region.”
The airport enhancements and infrastructure upgrades will create easier access to essential services for more than 30 communities and First Nations in the area.
“Through this targeted investment in the Township of Seguin, our government, alongside the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund, is helping build long-term economic resilience in Parry Sound and the surrounding region,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Energy, Northern Development and Mines. “This project will help retain and attract new business to the Parry Sound area as the community continues to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.”
For the official announcement, please click here.