A plaque was unveiled Friday recognizing the completion of the projects supported by a Sports Recreation Culture and Tourism Project (SCTP) grant in the Events Plaza at the Village at Blue Mountain.

The SCTP grant of approximately $10 million was awarded to the municipality and the Blue Mountain Village Association (BMVA) by the federal and provincial governments in 2003. The purpose of the grant was to facilitate the construction of tourism infrastructure that would enhance the region as a four-season tourist destination, as well as benefit the local community.

"This STCP program is a great example of a public private partnership that met all its goals," said Don Braden, President of the BMVA. "The resort developers, BMR and Intrawest, contributed $19.6 million to the governments' $8.4 million. The Blue Mountain Resort is now one of the key tourist destinations in Ontario and a real jewel in the Georgian Bay Coastal Route," added Braden.

"The development of the Mill Pond, Events Plaza including its stage and fountain and the Plunge Aqua Centre were all aided by the STCP project," explained Dan Piggott, VP Development, Intrawest.

"The addition of the gondola operation and the Plunge have both added a four season depth to our resort product, " said Gord Canning, President of BMR.

Total investment at the resort since Intrawest acquired its interest is  $503 million.

"The town and region have benefited from the world-class tourism attractions that were assisted by the STCP grant, " said Ellen Anderson, Mayor of the Town of The Blue Mountains.

"Beyond the resort development, trails were added to our community as well as public spaces and improved streetscapes. The look out at the fish ladder and the bike path on Grey Rd 19 are two great additions to our Town, " said Anderson.

"The restoration of the historic Craigleith Depot and improvements to the Marsh Centre are valuable enhancements to our cultural and tourism assets. I am very proud of the role local community groups  and the County also played in making these projects happen," said Anderson.