Infrastructure improvements planned at Algonquin Provincial Park

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Ontario Construction News staff writer

The Ontario government is spending more than $3.3 million to build, maintain and revitalize infrastructure at Algonquin Provincial Park, including building roofed accommodations and bridges.

“In 2022, Ontario Parks recorded more than 12.1 million visits and overnight camping grew by nine per cent over 2021, which shows the increasing demand for our beautiful provincial parks,” said David Piccini, minister of the environment, conservation and parks. “Building more roofed accommodations and bridges are an important part of ensuring visitors can enjoy a memorable experience at Algonquin Provincial Park year-round.”

Work includes construction of four yurts and four cabins at Mew Lake Campground, replacement of two bridges at Rock Lake and Pog Lake campgrounds and roadway paving and improvements along Highway 60.

Ontario Parks is planning on updating three additional yurts at Mew Lake Campground this year boostand all projects directly respond to the feedback from parks visitors. In a 2021 survey, about one-third of Ontario Parks visitors said they would be more likely to visit in the future if more roofed accommodations were available to rent.

“I can tell you firsthand from growing up hiking in Algonquin Provincial Park — it has so much to offer visitors, from hiking and biking trails to canoe routes and a Discovery program, and I am pleased we are bringing even more to the park by building more roofed accommodations for overnight stays,” said John Yakabuski, parliamentary assistant. “Reinvesting in Ontario Parks infrastructure at one of Ontario’s most beloved parks will ensure visitors can enjoy a quintessential Canadian camping experience.”

Investments in Ontario Parks infrastructure will expand recreational opportunities, boost local tourism and strengthen the protection and health of local wildlife and the environment.

This project is part of Ontario’s $41.7 million investment over two years to upgrade and maintain Ontario Parks infrastructure to continue to ensure a modern and enjoyable parks experience.

In 2022-23, Ontario Parks added 26 new roofed accommodations, bringing the total of roofed accommodations to 201 across 31 parks.

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