A celebration of the completion of Phase I of upgrades to the Yarmouth International Ferry Terminal was held aboard the CAT Ferry yesterday.
The project began in 2019 with Infrastructure Canada, the Province of Nova Scotia, and three local municipalities coming together to provide $9 million in joint funding.
The Town of Yarmouth contributed $1.5 Million, the Municipality of the District of Yarmouth contributed $1.2 Million, and the Municipality of the District of Argyle contributed $300K.
Bay Ferries CEO Mark MacDonald was there to welcome community leaders and project contributors aboard the CAT.
In a speech he said the support for the international transportation system is unique.
“Our company is very grateful for the support of the ferry service, as evidenced by this Phase I project. We understand the magnitude and importance of the commitments that each of the municipalities have made here.”
Yarmouth Mayor Pam Mood thanked Bay Ferries for their dedication to providing the ferry service.
“This service makes a critical difference for every single one of us, not just Yarmouth but the entire province.”
The Yarmouth International Ferry Terminal (Y95 News Photo)
Halifax West MP Lena Metlege Diab spoke on behalf of Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities Dominic LeBlanc, saying the terminal is a vital link between Canada and the United States.
The federal and provincial governments each contributed up to $3 million through the Small Communities Fund for the project.
“When we invest in infrastructure we’re creating stronger communities and investing in the wellbeing of Canadians today and for generations to come.” says Diab.
Municipality of Yarmouth Warden John Cunningham discussed an occasion when travelers in a mobile home landed on the ferry in Yarmouth before journeying across the country.
“That shows the importance of having an entry point into Canada in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia.” says Cunningham.
The completion of the project coincides with the CAT’s return. After its own three year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic and upgrades to the Bar Harbor, Maine, terminal the ferry returned to service on May 19th.
“The economic impact of the CAT Ferry on the tourism industry, especially in our southwest region, cannot be understated.” says Municipality of Argyle Deputy Warden Nicole Albright.
There’s still more work to be done on the terminal. Future projects will include wharf repairs, pontoon replacement, and an expansion and major renovation to the terminal building.
The Yarmouth International Ferry Terminal as seen from the deck of the CAT ferry. (Y95 News Photo)
