The Canadian government is investing $5.2M into the Port Weller Dry Docks Terminal project.
Minister of Transport Omar Alghabra made the announcement into the second phase of the project today.
The project will improve the areas of the port that are being used for the handling of cargo.
It will also develop around 11 acres of land that is available, but not being used, from the dockside to the cement trans-loading facility, as well as around the cargo laydown and handling area.
"As demand for cement continues to rise, and there is less land for port development, this project will increase capacity in the Niagara ports network. It will also improve transportation connections between Niagara ports, making it easier and more efficient to deliver goods to different markets."
In November of last year, Heddle Shipyards’ in Port Weller was awarded $135M to extend the life of the Canadian Coast Guard Ship Terry Fox.
The three-year project is expected to start this winter, and create 200 jobs.
"This investment into the Port Weller Dry Docks Terminal Project reaffirms our government's commitment to working alongside the marine shipping industry to strengthen our supply chain and increase efficiency. This will improve our region's ability to handle cargo and is exciting news for economic development in Niagara." Chris Bittle Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Member of Parliament for St. Catharines
"On behalf of Heddle Shipyards, I would like to thank the Honorable Minister Alghabra and Transport Canada for their continued support for our maritime economy. The investment in the Port Weller Dry Docks facility will strengthen the local supply chain and promote further growth in the marine industry, which will benefit not just our companies but our regional, provincial and national economies." Ted Kirkpatrick Director of Business Development and Government Relations, Heddle Shipyards