Tourism dollars headed to Kingston and area

Federal funding hopes to increase visits

The Federal Government has announced new funding for organizations across Eastern Ontario that are diversifying their offerings and contributing to attracting new visitors to the region.

Kingston and the Islands MP Mark Gerretsen, on behalf of Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, visited the Great Lakes Museum in Kingston to make a big funding announcement for the region

Gerretsen went on to highlight the unique, one of a kind tours on this ship. for example the passenger experience and the engine room experience.

The Great Lakes Museum also received over $77,000 from Canadian Heritage’s Canada Cultural Spaces Fund to renovate their historic Pump House. Upgrades will make the space wind- and watertight, more energy efficient, and accessible, preserving its Victorian-era features as a key part of the visitor experience for the S.S. Keewatin.

Also benefitting from this announcement is the Kingston & Area Association of Museums, Art Galleries & Historic Sites, who's receiving $120,000 to enhance and grow the annual March of Museums festival.

MP Gerretsen highlighted how an increase in tourists leads to spillover benefits into communities while stimulating local economies.