Province contributes to airport study

The Ontario government has contributed money towards a study that will help determine development opportunities at North Bay's airport.

Further information is included in the following news release issued today by the Northern Development and Mines Minister:

NORTH BAY – The Ontario government is supporting economic prosperity in North Bay by helping identify future uses and opportunities for lands at Jack Garland Airport, Nipissing MPP Monique Smith announced today on behalf of Northern Development and Mines Minister Rick Bartolucci.

“North Bay is well positioned to build on its established air transportation and aerospace-related businesses,” Smith said.

“I’m pleased that our government is supporting the growth of this industry.”

The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) is providing $20,000 to North Bay Jack Garland Airport to conduct a comprehensive land development analysis that will guide the short and long-term development and use of city-owned airport lands.

In addition to its passenger and cargo facilities, the airport site offers hangar space, flight training, avionics repair and aircraft maintenance, and houses Canadore College’s School of Aviation.

Two large tracts of land, with some fully serviced lots, have been designated for further commercial and industrial development. The airport corporation is also pursuing new initiatives that would significantly increase the site’s economic impact.

“Our government appreciates that efficiencies and innovation result when related ventures are concentrated in a region,” said Bartolucci, who also chairs the NOHFC.

“Planning for this type of business synergy helps to further strengthen Ontario’s economic advantage.”

This NOHFC project is part of the government’s Northern Prosperity Plan for building stronger northern communities. The Northern Prosperity Plan has four pillars: Strengthening the North and its Communities; Listening to and Serving Northerners Better; Competing Globally; and Providing Opportunities for All.