THUNDER BAY, ON ----   April 9, 2009  -----Residents of Thunder Bay  are invited to an Open House, Italian Cultural Centre, 132 Algoma St. South, on May 14 on Prince Arthur’s Landing to learn about the project status, next steps, planned construction and find out first hand about the economic impact delivered to City Council.

The economic impact assessment for Prince Arthur’s Landing presented to Council on April 6 by global audit, consulting and financial advisory specialists Deloitte & Touche LLP shows significant economic benefits for the City of Thunder Bay. The report highlights direct and indirect economic benefits of $41 million annually.

Construction alone is expected to generate $202 million in spending and create 1,415 person years of employment that will pay $94 million in wages, the assessment shows. Once Prince Arthur‘s Landing at Marina Park is operational, Deloitte projects 95 person years of annual employment and another 355 jobs in the broader city economy, generating nearly $5 million in annual income for those employees.

"I am delighted to see that the projected economic impacts of Prince Arthur's Landing are significant and far reaching for the future of our City,” said Councillor Mark Bentz, Chair – Waterfront Development Committee. “The study confirms this is a great investment for strengthening and diversifying our economy while providing a vibrant community gathering place on our waterfront."

With the economic assessment and business case complete, the City of Thunder Bay invites residents to attend a Public Open House on Thursday, May 14, for an update on the implementation of the Master Plan for Prince Arthur’s Landing at Marina Park and to ask questions about the assessment and the project. Details regarding construction plans, the detailed design of public amenities, environmental assessment processes and opportunities for public art will be presented.

Public Open House:
Thursday, May 14, 4 – 9 pm
Italian Cultural Centre, 132 Algoma St. South

4 pm - Open House begins

   • Ask questions of Team members
   • Get information

6:30 pm – Public Presentations

   • General Project Overview – Katherine Dugmore, Waterfront Project Manager
   • Detailed Design of Prince Arthur’s Landing public amenities – Calvin Brook, BMI/Pace

Architects

   • Environmental Assessment – Anneliese Grieve, Senes Consultants

Questions and answers to follow presentations.