Algoma Central Railway recognized as industry leader

Algoma Central Railway Inc. (ACR) was honoured last night with Tourism Sault Ste. Marie's first Business of the Year Award.

The award, sculpted by local artists Tim and Bonnie Barthelmes, recognizes the railway's local investment to establish a strong tourism business and generate millions of dollars in tourism spending in the Sault and Algoma region.

Our photograph shows ACR's Mike Morrow (right) accepting the award from Bill Durnford of Tourism Sault Ste. Marie at a special dinner dance at the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre.

The following are Durnford's speaking notes:

**************************************************************** Business of the Year Algoma Central Railway Inc. Agawa Canyon Tour Train

The train is considered one of the major tourist attractions for Sault Ste. Marie.

The Agawa Canyon was first cleared in 1952 with a few picnic tables being set up for visitors and became a part of the regular passenger train.

Due to the popularity and increasing ridership, a dedicated tour train was established in 1972.

Since that time, the Tour Train has carried over 2.7 million riders and over 3 million since 1952.

Since 1972, additional product lines have been created which include the Snow Train, Tour of the Line to Hearst, wilderness lodges along the line, Canyon View Camp Car, Tracks to Trails snowmobile excursions and private car excursions.

They were a leader in developing the ACR market share program in 1994 by involving the local accommodation businesses in packaging the train excursion with overnight stays and pooling financial contributions for marketing, in an effort to draw more business across the border.

This effort has paid off and has reversed the trend of most of the train's passengers staying in Sault Michigan.

This market share along with the Searchmont market share were the forerunners to the current Tourism Partnership Fund that exists today in which the Agawa Canyon Tour Train is a major contributor.

They also invest in their front line staff by certifying all staff with the Ontario Superhost program enabling them to provide excellent customer service as well as act as ambassadors to the community with valued added tourist information.

Their plans for the near future include re-introducing the dome car and private car services following a refurbishment program as well as partnering with Tourism Sault Ste. Marie, Mackinaw Area Visitors Bureau and the Sault Michigan Chamber to develop the "Planes, Trains & Boats" tour that will attract additional bus groups to the area.

There is no question that the Agawa Canyon Tour Train provides our community with a truly unique attraction, which positions Sault Ste. Marie as a premier tourism destination.

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