The Ontario government is spending $293,000 to build, maintain and revitalize infrastructure at Awenda Provincial Park that will improve the visitor experience at the Midland-area park and boost local tourism.
“Awenda is a beautiful park accessed year-round by outdoor enthusiasts. The park is exposed to Georgian Bay weather events and, depending on the season, heavy vehicle use by visitors,” Simcoe North MPP Jill Dunlop said in a news release. “Paving upgrades to the park roads is of utmost importance for visitors to safely and smoothly navigate the unique terrain.”
Dunlop says the provincial "investment" at Awenda Provincial Park to improve infrastructure supports the paving of the roads within the park. In turn, it "enhances" the experience for those visiting the Tiny Township park, whether for the day or a lengthy camping holiday.
Awenda Provincial Park boasts more than 2,900 hectares of forested land on the shores of Georgian Bay with 31 kilometres of trails and 17 kilometres of back-country ski trails in winter.
“In 2022, Ontario Parks recorded more than 12.1 million visits and overnight camping grew by nine per cent over 2021, which goes to show the increasing demand for our beautiful provincial parks,” Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks David Piccini said in the release.
“Upgrading infrastructure is one of the ways we’re working to improve the visitor experience, so that they have a memorable and positive time while at our parks, returning with their friends and families for years to come," he added.
The province says ongoing improvements in Ontario Parks infrastructure is another way it is expanding recreational opportunities for Ontario families, boosting local tourism and strengthening the protection and health of local wildlife and the environment.
This project at Awenda is part of Ontario’s $41.7-million investment over two years to upgrade and maintain Ontario Parks infrastructure to continue to ensure a modern and enjoyable parks experience.
The province says Ontario’s "world-class system of provincial parks is one of our greatest strengths, providing health and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike for more than 125 years."
Every dollar spent at Ontario Parks, from annual passes to purchases from the online to create a better park experience for visitors, improve services, programs and amenities and protect 340 provincial parks and 295 conservation reserves across the province.
