News Release

ALMA (GNB) – The provincial and federal governments are investing to create a tourism hub in the centre of Alma.

“Our government believes that our tourism industry represents a key economic generator for our province and is critical to New Brunswick’s heritage, culture, recreation and entertainment industries,” said Tourism, Heritage and Culture Minister Bill Fraser. “Our government is committed to working with our partners to grow our tourism industry and to promote our province as a world-class destination.”

Fraser spoke on behalf of Health Minister Victor Boudreau, who is also minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation.

The project involves improvements to the former Alma Consolidated School building to enhance visitor information and community facilities; the development of a multipurpose green space and parking lot; and improvements to Alma’s Activity Centre building façade and ground floor to serve as a venue for local artisans and experiential tourism.

“The federal government is committed to creating a stronger tourism sector,” said Fundy Royal MP Alaina Lockhart. “Vision Alma is a strategic community project that will complement current tourism offerings in this community, while increasing economic opportunities all along the Fundy coast. This investment will help strengthen the local tourism infrastructure, which ultimately will attract more visitors, promote longer stays, and increase tourist-generated revenue in the region.”

Lockhart attended the event for federal Innovation, Science and Economic Development Minister Navdeep Bains, who is also minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).

The provincial government, through the Regional Development Corporation, is providing $120,000 in funding. The federal government is investing $845,631 in the project through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund. The Village of Alma is contributing $120,000.

“This small community called Alma feels like the recipient of a major lottery win,” said Alma Mayor Kirstin Shortt. “We are ecstatic, our dreams are actually coming true. Now, with financial assistance from ACOA and the Government of New Brunswick, we will be better able to showcase our village to the world. Alma has already been recognized as one of 10 major tourist destinations in Canada and this help from both levels of government will allow us to fortify our foundation while enhancing a top tourism destination choice.”