The city's southernmost canoe launch will be getting a $378,000 upgrade next year thanks to a grant that will allow the project to proceed to its original scope after it was determined the original budget was insufficient due to escalating construction costs.
The project at the Water Street South launch area, near the entrance to Churchill Park, will see improvements made to the canoe launch ramp, the creation of a seating area with benches and more parking.
It is part of a region-wide effort to rejuvenate tourism along the Grand River and help it live up to its status as a Canadian Heritage River.
The city will use a $228,244 grant from a yet-to-be-named source to complete the work. The city says the grant has been secured but details are confidential pending a formal announcement.
The project was initially approved by council in 2020 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2023.
"I'm really delighted to see this particular project moving ahead," Mayor Kathryn McGarry told council and staff Tuesday. "Another river access that's been long-desired by our community is taking the next step forward."
