EDC confirms port development paused. Stakeholders still interested

NEWS RELEASE

SAULT STE. MARIE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION

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SAULT STE. MARIE, ON - (October 18, 2016) - The redevelopment of the community’s only public seaway-depth port continues to be a key strategic priority with the real potential to change the economic fabric of Sault Ste. Marie and surrounding region. Given the importance of this transportation infrastructure initiative, the Sault Ste. Marie Economic Development Corporation remains committed to advancing the project.

“Notwithstanding recent media reports concerning the local steelmaker’s restructuring process and its impact on the Port of Algoma, our organization continues to work with Port of Algoma officials to develop commercial opportunities for this vital industrial facility,” said Robert Reid, President and Board Chair of the Sault Ste. Marie Economic Development Corporation. “While there has been a pause in the community’s port development efforts, all stakeholders wish to see a redeveloped, active and commercially-competitive port in Sault Ste. Marie.”

Expanding the Port of Algoma for public use will provide a number of benefits to the city and region. It will attract new businesses, create jobs and lead to additional tax revenues for all levels of government. Port redevelopment will also provide modern and efficient dock space with associated facilities and infrastructure for production, processing, storage and trans-shipment of goods. As well, the project will provide increased multimodal connectivity for area businesses by making it more cost-effective to transport products to, from and through Sault Ste. Marie.

For more information on the Port of Algoma, visit www.algomaport.com

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