Niagara-on-the-Lake – The Ontario government is investing nearly $10 million to help transform Niagara District Airport into a modern regional gateway capable of supporting future commercial passenger service. The investment will support design work and critical infrastructure upgrades, unlocking Niagara’s full potential as a world-renowned tourism destination while supporting local businesses, creating good-paying jobs and driving economic growth across the region.
“This $10 million investment to advance the expansion of Niagara District Airport is another example of how our government continues to bring critical infrastructure dollars and good-paying jobs to Niagara,” said Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West.
“This support for our regional airport is part of the Destination Niagara Strategy and our plan to protect Ontario by not only attracting more visitors from across North America, but around the globe.”
“Niagara is a major contributor to Ontario’s economy and our government is investing in transportation infrastructure that will allow one of the most renowned tourist destinations on the planet to continue to thrive for generations to come,” said Hon. Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation.
“Our nearly $10-million investment in Niagara’s airport will support improved passenger air services, helping to make it faster and easier for millions of tourists to visit Niagara each year.”
This investment will advance the master plan of Niagara District Airport – a twenty-year vision to transform the airport into a modern regional gateway. Work includes terminal upgrades, new service buildings and improvements to taxiways, aprons and runway infrastructure needed to support future growth.
“This investment is a major step forward for Niagara District Airport and Niagara,” said Greg Wight, Chair of the Niagara District Airport Commission.
“With the province’s support, we are advancing the planning and design work that underpins our vision for the airport – to strengthen regional connectivity, support tourism and economic growth and enhance Niagara’s ability to compete for investment, businesses and visitors.”
“Niagara District Airport is a valuable asset jointly owned by the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, City of Niagara Falls and City of St. Catharines, and today’s investment reflects its growing importance,” said Gary Zalepa, Lord Mayor of the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake.
“Thoughtful expansion has the potential to strengthen regional connectivity, improve travel options for local residents, reduce pressure on transportation corridors like the QEW and further unlock the economic opportunities created through the Destination Niagara Strategy.”
Last fall, the province launched its Destination Niagara Strategy, a multibillion-dollar plan to create new world-class attractions, boost local arts and culture and improve the region’s transportation network. The strategy aims to attract 25 million visitors a year and double the region’s tourism impact to generate an additional $3 billion for Ontario’s Gross Domestic Product. The strategy includes plans to improve highway, transit and air access to Niagara.