Opportunities in wine country start in St. Catharines
The recent "Wine Country Enhancement Report" says it all - Niagara's Wine Country is investment ready.
The report - commissioned by communities across Wine Country - identifies how they have prepared for investment and are undertaking the necessary actions to accommodate it. A variety of economic development opportunities have been identified to stimulate investment, and the report outlines a number of community infrastructure improvements to enhance Wine Country as a recognizable place and destination.
There have been important and strategic investments in Wine Country, including the Hilton Garden Inn and approved Pillar and Post Hotel expansion in Niagara-on-the-Lake and continued investment in Jordan.
At the heart of wine country is St. Catharines. The recent report recommends the development of a Niagara Wine Country Embassy in the downtown area of St. Catharines. The embassy is envisioned as a multi-functional complex focusing on providing a venue for the performing and fine arts. In addition, there is potential to develop the complex as the perceived "headquarters" of Wine Country, providing it with an identifiable central location and address.
St. Catharines and Welland are also key to the success of the strategy because of their ability to link winery and culinary travelers with the heritage and cultural properties that will also be of interest.
For more information on tourism investment opportunities throughout Ontario, please visit: www.investinontario.com/tourism/regionalinvest.asp.