ST. THOMAS, ONTARIO – The Government of Canada is helping to restore a historical building in Elgin County, creating over twenty jobs. The investment of up to $250,000 was announced today by Member of Parliament for Elgin-Middlesex-London Joe Preston on behalf of Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz.

“We are committed to helping our rural communities and boosting the local economy, creating jobs and opportunity in the process,” said MP Preston. “This restoration project is a great example of how we’re working together with local partners to deliver results for communities.”

The Canada Southern Railway Station (CASO) was built in 1873 and served as the midpoint for the heavily traveled rail routes of Detroit to Buffalo and Chicago to New York. Over 16,000 square feet of the building is being restored to the period of 1914 to 1925 and will become a tourist destination and cultural centre attracting visitors from the surrounding region. CASO will also be developing a railway themed tour package, working with other heritage organizations in the area.

Funding is being provided through the Sand Plains Community Development Fund administered by the Ontario Association of Community Futures Development Corporations. The fund targets community-based initiatives that support regional development, attract and retain people and investment, and stimulate business development and job creation. 

For more information on the Sand Plains Community Development Fund, please visit www.ontcfdc.com or www.sandplains.ca.