Ontario Construction News staff writer
NIAGARA FALLS – The Ontario government has unveiled its Destination Niagara Strategy, a multi-pronged plan to expand tourism through new attractions, upgraded transportation infrastructure, and large-scale redevelopment projects.
Key elements of the strategy involve significant construction and engineering initiatives. The government is moving forward on a series of projects, including twinning the Garden City Skyway, expanding the Queen Elizabeth Way through Niagara, and improving GO Transit service. A request for proposals has been issued to explore upgrading Niagara District Airport to accommodate larger aircraft.
“This provincial funding will help us realize our vision by modernizing gaming, enhancing and expanding attractions, improving access to the region, promoting our world-class wine and culinary experiences and supporting the arts, culture and heritage that make this community so unique,” said Erwin Wiens, deputy lord mayor of Niagara-on-the-Lake. “It’s initiatives and funding opportunities like these that continue to strengthen our economy and position our region as a leader on the global stage for generations to come.”
Several high-profile developments are planned for the region’s tourism and cultural infrastructure. These include the redevelopment of the historic Ontario Power Generating Station and the Toronto Power Generating Station into hotels and visitor destinations, a new 3.8-kilometre Niagara River Line tram with suspended capsules, and the revitalization of the Niagara Parks Marina at Miller’s Creek. The government is also exploring a new observation wheel, similar to London’s Eye, and a signature theme park attraction.
The plan also includes potential expansion of Niagara’s gaming sector, which could involve large-scale casino, hotel, and entertainment complexes. Combined with culinary, wine, and cultural tourism initiatives, the strategy is expected to drive significant private-sector construction and investment in the region.
Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati said the city is “ready to welcome even more visitors” and predicted the infrastructure improvements could stimulate major private-sector development.
Tourism Minister Stan Cho said the projects aim to position Niagara as a year-round destination while supporting construction and other industries, and Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria noted the work will improve connectivity for both visitors and local businesses.
Several of the proposed projects, including the observation wheel, theme park, and Niagara River Line tram, remain in planning or procurement stages. No new funding commitments were announced.
