Boardwalk Revitalizes Digby Waterfront
Digby's waterfront has been revitalized with a new boardwalk that officially opens today. Residents, members of the business community and representatives from three levels of government were invited to help celebrate the completion of another phase of the town's waterfront development.
The first phases concentrated on parking, benches, a stage, green space and length of boardwalk that makeup Digby Centre. Building another section of boardwalk was the focus of the most recent development. It involved constructing retaining and armour rock walls and decking, as well as underpinning several buildings owned by downtown businesses.
"Coastal and riverfront communities in Nova Scotia have always known the value of their waterfront areas for boosting economic activity," said Gordon Balser, Minister of Economic Development. "Here in Digby, the business community has been a tremendous supporter of waterfront development because it draws tourists and residents to the downtown area and boosts their revenues."
The latest phase of Digby's waterfront improvements received $250,000 from the Waterfront Development Program, which is funded by the Canada/Nova Scotia COOPERATION Agreement on Economic Diversification. The agreement is managed by ACOA and Nova Scotia Department of Economic Development.
"Restoring the physical, historical and environmental value of Nova Scotia's waterfronts can generate significant advantages for our province," said Senator Al Graham, leader of the government in the Senate and Minister responsible for Nova Scotia, on behalf of George Baker, Secretary of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. "This innovative program is an excellent example of the federal government's commitment to working with Nova Scotia communities to promote solid economic growth in rural areas."
The town is now considering joining the new boardwalk to Digby Centre at one end and extending it south along Admiral Walk to the tourist bureau at the other.
"The new boardwalk is a big step forward for our waterfront restoration plans," said Mayor Frank Mackintosh. "It's a great drawing card for tourists and it's something that local people can enjoy as well."
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