Funding improves popular local trail system

MATTAWA — The Ontario government provided $81,221 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to help the Voyageur Multi-Use Trail System team install two trail bridges. As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario, the province is making strategic investments to help northern organizations revitalize recreational infrastructure and make public spaces more accessible for locals and visitors to use and enjoy.

“Our government’s NOHFC investment in trail enhancements is helping boost tourism and local economic development in the Mattawa region,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “With our support, the Voyageur Multi-Use Trail System will continue to be a significant nature tourism attraction in northeastern Ontario for many years to come.”

Much-used and treasured by outdoor enthusiasts, the Voyageur Multi-Use Trail System is located between the Algonquin Highlands and Laurentian Mountains and bordered by the Mattawa and Ottawa Rivers. The system has over 300 kilometres of multi-use trails used mostly by recreational vehicles such as ATVs, dirt bikes and snowmobiles. It is a volunteer-based and not-for-profit operation.

With NOHFC funding, the Voyageur Multi-Use Trail System team installed two trail bridges to replace dilapidated structures. The new bridges are located over Antoine Creek and Francis Creek.

“The Voyageur Multi-Use Trail System thanks MPP Vic Fedeli and the Ontario government for the funding to install two badly needed bridges. The bridges cross Francis Creek and Antoine Creek, enabling riders to cross them safely without damaging sensitive fish habitat,” said Keith Dillabough, President, Voyageur Multi-Use Trail System. “The trail system is an important economic driver in our area, bringing millions of dollars into the local economy. Over 10,000 riders are attracted to this beautiful area and its trails each year. In the process, they support restaurants, gas stations, accommodation providers and retail stores. Many riders fall in love with the area and invest in property and housing, which spurs more economic development. The new bridges enhance the trail-riding experience, while protecting both the riders and the creeks.”

“We’re pleased to have secured the investments needed for the Voyageur Multi-Use Trail System organization to complete its bridge replacement project,” said Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing. “With the construction complete, recreational enthusiasts will be able to reap the benefits of the new trail infrastructure this summer. The Ontario government is committed to promoting tourism and enhancing the quality of life for the people living in Mattawa and the surrounding areas.”

The Ontario government is prioritizing investments through the NOHFC that protect northern industries and jobs, mitigate the impacts of U.S. tariffs and trade disruptions and secure new opportunities for the long-term prosperity of northern Ontario. The renewed focus is boosting competitiveness and ensuring the north remains a leader in Ontario’s economy. This new direction is in addition to the province’s investment of an additional $30 million over three years, bringing the NOHFC’s annual budget to a total of $110 million. Together, these initiatives will benefit communities of all sizes, both rural and urban, including Indigenous communities.

Quick Facts

• Through its funding programs, the NOHFC offers support to public and private sector economic development projects across northern Ontario.
• Since June 2018, the NOHFC has invested more than $1 billion in over 8,200 economic development projects in northern Ontario, leveraging more than $3 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 12,800 jobs.

Additional Resources

• The NOHFC, Northern Development Offices and Small Business Enterprise Centres support northern communities, businesses and other stakeholders in identifying economic development opportunities and government funding programs.