FORMER MILL LANDS TRANSFERRED TO TOWN OF GRAND FALLS-WINDSOR
Posted on
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 1, 2024
Grand Falls-Windsor, NL – The Town of Grand Falls-Windsor is thrilled to announce that it has officially acquired some of the former Abitibi Mill Lands from the provincial government. The process for this acquisition began in 2015 and was finalized in early October 2024.
This acquisition was the result of years of hard work and collaboration with various departments of government. The Town engaged extensively with multiple ministers, deputy ministers, assistant deputy ministers, directors, the Premier’s office, and local MHAs to ensure the success of the land transfer. Additionally, as part of due diligence, the Town conducted environmental assessments that confirmed the land’s suitability for future road development and ensuring it is primed for the benefit of the community.
The lands transferred consist of three key parcels:
- Parcel 1: The main road access from the Trans-Canada Highway to the downtown core of Grand Falls-Windsor, a critical link that enhances accessibility and connectivity.
- Parcel 2: Road access from Lincoln Road to the mill lands, intersecting near the historic Grand Falls House, further strengthening the town’s infrastructure.
- Parcel 3: Secures the land where the Heritage Society is located, safeguarding this cultural landmark and allowing for potential future tourism development.
An exciting aspect of this acquisition is the expanded access and connectivity it brings to the community. Residents and visitors will immediately benefit from new ATV, snowmobile, and side-by-side access routes, creating seamless connections between the north and south sides of Grand Falls-Windsor. This also means better access to commercial services without interfering with regular vehicle traffic, providing practical and recreational advantages for everyone.
For now, the Town’s focus remains on ensuring that this newly acquired land is prepared for safe and effective public use. The Town is actively working on road preparation, cutting brush, installing signage, and adding access gates to enhance safety and accessibility for all. Public safety is paramount, and the Town is committed to creating a welcoming, well-maintained space for its community.
Looking to the future, this land transfer opens the door to additional road access from the Trans-Canada Highway directly into the town’s downtown core, facilitating both commerce and tourism. Alongside this new roadway, an ATV trail will be developed in the future, maintaining this connection.
This acquisition represents more than just an expansion of land – it is a strategic asset that holds enormous potential for tourism and economic development. With its proximity to key landmarks such as the Trans-Canada Highway, Grand Falls House, the Heritage Center, Downtown, and various recreational sites like Gorge Park, the zip lines, and the ski chalet, this area is set to become a hub for both visitors and new businesses.
The lands’ development will not only drive tourism but will also attract businesses and residents, contributing to the growth and vibrancy of Grand Falls-Windsor for years to come.
The Town would like to extend its deepest gratitude to all those who played a role in making this acquisition a reality. This achievement would not have been possible without the relentless efforts and dedication of current and past Town Councils, whose persistence over the years has brought this momentous occasion.
This is truly a significant moment for Grand Falls-Windsor, and the Town looks forward to working with the community to develop these lands into assets that will benefit all residents.
Media Contact:
Robyn Hannaford
Communications Officer, Town of Grand Falls-Windsor
communications@townofgfw.com
709-489-0173 | 709-689-3682
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