Government of Canada Invests $74 million in the Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site
Priority projects along the waterway to focus on repairs and upgrades to dams and locks
The network of protected areas administered by Parks Canada is a gateway to nature, history, and 450 000 km² of stories from coast to coast to coast. Investing in these locations helps support the protection of natural heritage and our rich history, increases climate resiliency and creates jobs in local communities, while providing visitors with high-quality, safe and meaningful experiences across the country.
The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, announced approximately $74 million over three years for projects related to critical infrastructure improvements along the Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site. The Trent-Severn Waterway is Canada’s largest and one of the most visited national historic sites, welcoming more than 1 million visitors each year.
Through this federal investment – part of the $557 million in funding announced by the Government of Canada in late 2022 – Parks Canada will conserve the heritage value of these important cultural resources. Additionally, investments in infrastructure along the Trent-Severn Waterway will enhance Parks Canada’s ability to mitigate flood risks, protect heritage in Canada and strengthen the appeal of this world-class waterway as a destination for visitors and tourists. Once these infrastructure projects are complete, the lifespan and function of these structures will have been extended for decades, continuing to connect and protect local communities. The work supported through this investment includes:
- repairs to the Kirkfield Lift Lock;
- recapitalization of the walls, tunnels and valves at Lock 42 – Couchiching;
- recapitalization of the Little Chute Dam “G” near Port Severn;
- replacement of the Whites Portage Dam on Six Mile Lake;
- recapitalization of the valve tunnels for Healey Falls Locks 16 and 17; and,
- creation of an access road from White’s Falls Road to the Pretty Channel Dam.
Parks Canada has a mandate to conserve and present national heritage places in Canada. More than just supporting visitors as cornerstones of Canada’s tourism industry, Parks Canada’s assets play critical functions, such as transportation, water management, public safety, and services to residents and businesses, while being a source of shared pride for Canadians. These upgrades will help ensure public safety, quality and reliability for visitors, incorporate green technologies and climate resilience, while connecting Canadians with nature and history.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love