Ontario Government Invests in Rural Economic Growth with Coboconk Train Station Revitalization
Coboconk, ON — The Ontario government is bolstering economic development in rural communities with a major investment in the Coboconk Train Station. The Coboconk, Norland and Area Chamber of Commerce (CNACC) will receive up to $250,000 in funding through the province’s Rural Economic Development (RED) program. This contribution is part of a nearly $1 million initiative to transform the historic train station into a multi-use community hub and business incubator.
Announcing the funding, Lisa Thompson, Minister of Rural Affairs, emphasized the importance of supporting rural communities. “Our government values rural communities throughout the province, and this program provides municipalities, small towns, Indigenous communities, and not-for-profits with the funding they need for projects that contribute to local economic vitality,” said Thompson.
I was very impressed when @LaurieScottPC & I met with the local municipal leadership in #Coboconk. We announced that their thoughtful ec dev #RED application was successful & $250,000 in cost-share funding will enable them to turn their historic train station into a business hub! pic.twitter.com/5JtBZWDA86
— Lisa Thompson (@LisaThompsonPC) November 22, 2024
Community Hub to Drive Local Business Innovation
The Coboconk Train Station renovations will include commercial rental spaces and a flexible innovation hub aimed at fostering business growth. The facility will serve as a central location for local industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and medical services to collaborate and innovate. By providing a space for industry stakeholders to work together, the CNACC aims to drive the creation of new products and services, enhancing economic opportunities in the region.
Additional Investments in Downtown Revitalization
The City of Kawartha Lakes and the Fenelon Falls and District Chamber of Commerce will also benefit from the RED program, receiving up to $35,000 to implement a Downtown Revitalization action plan. This initiative will provide business training, develop marketing materials, and strengthen community partnerships to address economic barriers and stimulate local growth.
Broader Rural Economic Support
Through the latest intake of the RED program, the Ontario government is investing more than $5.7 million into 85 projects across the province. These projects aim to create jobs, diversify local economies, and tackle labour force challenges. The program provides cost-sharing funding to municipalities, small towns, and organizations for initiatives that promote long-term rural prosperity.
The Coboconk Train Station project represents a significant step in boosting local business innovation and community development in the Kawartha Lakes region, setting a precedent for similar investments in rural Ontario.
