The Almaguin Community Economic Development Department is getting $400,000 from the federal government.
Officials say the funds are to help sustainably grow the region’s economy, encourage outside investment, and develop services along the Highway 11 corridor between Muskoka and North Bay. Projects include developing another industrial park and an internal study on housing in the region.
“FedNor’s renewed support for our work will help us ensure the long-term social and economic prosperity of the Almaguin Highlands,” says Wendy Whitwell, department chair and Armour Township councillor. “Today’s announcement will help us build and expand on the strong relationships that exist between the members of the Almaguin Highlands Community Economic Development Department, allowing us to forge additional partnerships and attract new business and investment to the region.”
The department consists of the Townships of Perry, Armour, Ryerson, Strong, and Joly, the villages of Burk’s Falls, Sundridge, and Strong, and the Almaguin Highlands Chamber of Commerce. Since 2019, it has created two industrial parks in the region and launched a website promoting local businesses.