Sarnia: One of the busiest commercial land border crossings in North America, located on the Ontario–Michigan border, Sarnia-Lambton is a dynamic hub for businesses and tourists, drawn to its local markets, city’s waterfront, trails and parks.
On behalf of Helena Jaczek, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), Peter Fragiskatos, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Revenue and Member of Parliament for London North Centre, has announced an investment of over $1.5 million in support for six community infrastructure and tourism projects across Sarnia-Lambton under the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) and Tourism Relief Fund (TRF). These investments will create and revitalize community spaces and enhance tourism attractions to welcome build stronger, more vibrant communities.
The announcement was made in the Town of Petrolia at Victoria Hall, home to Victoria Playhouse Petrolia, a 400-seat state-of-the-art theatre in the centre of downtown Petrolia, which is receiving $116,825. With this TRF investment, Victoria Playhouse will extend its season from three to six weeks, add digital screens to bring visitors back to the theatre and enhance their experience. The Town of Petrolia is also receiving a $699,000-non-repayable CCRF investment to improve the Petrolia YMCA Community Centre creating a fitness and wellness hub for the residents of Petrolia and surrounding communities.
An investment of $47,400 was also announced for the Kiwanis Club of Forest to improve Kiwanis’ flagship, Kineto Theatre.
Peter Fragiskatos said: “Community spaces and the tourism industry in Sarnia-Lambton is vital to our local economy and the vibrancy of our communities. Today’s investment in six community infrastructure and tourism projects will help to enhance existing public infrastructure and local events that will safely welcome vistors, and prepare for a more resilient future.”
R. Brad Loosley, Mayor of the Town of Petrolia, said: “We are extremely grateful for this financial support to assist with tourism and recreation in the Town of Petrolia. The Kiwanis Club of Forest owns and operates the Kineto Theatre, one of the world’s oldest, independent movie theatres. The FedDev Ontario funding will allow us to finish the façade and other upgrades making the 106-year-old building a stunning showcase in our downtown streetscape. The theatre, often referred to as the gem of the town, is a cultural hub that attracts patrons from across Lambton County and beyond.”