The warden of Richmond Co. says a facade improvement project in Arichat means a great deal to the entire municipality.
Cape Breton-Canso MP Rodger Cuzner announced $710,000 in federal funding through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency for the Arichat Mainstreet Revitalization Project Jan. 17.
The project, estimated to cost $2 million, includes a sidewalk spanning 0.74 kilometres from Bay Lane to Highland St., streetscaping and business facade work.
Jason MacLean, Richmond Co.’s warden, tells The Hawk it’s not just for Arichat residents.
“It’s something that all of Richmond Co. can participate in- the sidewalks, the businesses, and attracting more businesses,” he says. “It’s just promoting a healthier lifestyle for the people who want to get out and take a walk, it’s right next to the St. Anne Centre, so it’s wheelchair-accessible.”
MacLean says it will be a big boost to all of the municipality.
“It’s a huge facelift to the businesses and the community through the main street of Arichat,” he says. “We went through something very similar in St. Peter’s years ago- it really gives the community a nice vibe.”
MacLean says municipal officials have committed $1 million to the project; local business contributions to the facade program will cover the rest of the bill.
