Media Release

Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority Rallies Following
Jordan Harbour Fire

For Immediate Release:  November 18, 2009

The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority’s plans for the redevelopment of one of its land holding located in the Jordan Harbour took a new twist following the recent fire which destroyed a concrete block building on the site.

Recommendations for the re-development of the site were identified as part of the Twenty Valley Tourism Strategy and Development Vision, initiated in collaboration with several project partners in 2003.  Well known by locals as the former Campbell’s Marina, the site is located on 21st Street in Jordan, and has been in the Conservation Authority’s ownership since 2005.  The site was historically used as a small boat marina and is one of the last remaining links to the harbour that was once located at the mouth of the Twenty Mile Creek.  It provides the only existing location to launch a small boat to travel up to the railway bridge ruins to view the extensive marsh habitat.

The Conservation Authority’s recent plans to revive the site including renovating and expanding the existing buildings as necessary to accommodate the proposed new uses for public enjoyment have sustained a minor setback due to the fire. 

Tony D’Amario, Chief Administrative Officer of the conservation authority states “this unfortunate incident is a setback, but it is our goal to see the project move forward.  First and foremost we need to clear the debris from the fire and secure the site.   This is a priority project of the Conservation Authority and I am confident that we can still meet our goal of having a number of the project components completed over the next three to five years.”                                                                                                              

Doug Ransom, Chairman of the Board emphasizes “the Jordan Harbour plan is a key project for the Conservation Authority’s 50th anniversary vision. Project costs are estimated at approximately $3.5 million over a multi year time frame.  Funding will come in part from fundraising efforts lead by the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation.”

Once the site has been cleaned up, the Conservation Authority will begin to secure the necessary resources to move forward with its first phase of the project, which will include improvements such as access road and parking lot enhancements, installation of security lighting, shore cleanup and marsh restoration to protect the ecological integrity of the site.  Over the next several years, expectations are to complete a walking trail, a raised boardwalk, a lookout platform, installation of interpretive signage and a link to the Waterfront Trail. 

“We are very excited about the numerous opportunities afforded us to move forward with this project.  I believe our community will support our efforts and we look forward to being able to offer an opportunity for public access to a rare calm water site”, comments Mr. D’Amario.   “There has been a great deal of public interest in the site and our plans will provide visitors a chance to enjoy another one of the areas spectacular natural areas including passive water-based recreational activities.  I truly believe that this project will inject a renewed interest in the importance of the watersheds’ natural resources.”

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Contact:

Tony D’Amario, Chief Administrative Officer,
Phone: 905-788-3135 ext. 251; (Cell: 905-401-6274)
Email:  tdamario@npca.ca

Darcy Baker, Director, Land Management,
Phone: 905-788-3135 ext. 248; (Cell: 905-658-4248)
Email: dbaker@npca.ca