Charlottetown harbour gets $12M for expansion

CHARLOTTETOWN — The governments of Canada and Prince Edward Island are contributing more than $12 million towards the expansion of the Charlottetown Marine Terminal.

Through the New Building Canada Fund, the federal and provincial governments are each contributing up to $4 million. The Charlottetown Harbour Authority Inc. is responsible for all other project costs.

Work includes the expansion of the Charlottetown Marine Terminal South Berth by approximately 270 metres to accommodate two 330-metre cruise ships simultaneously, while also leaving space for oil tankers and cargo ships, states a release issued by Infrastructure Canada.

The larger berth will provide more room for large cruise ships and the growing number of passengers visiting the region each year, improving the experience for tourists as well as those conducting business in the area, adds the release.

“The ability to safely berth two vessels will allow for continued growth of the cruise industry on Prince Edward Island and in the region, as well as providing improved handling capabilities for the importation of fuel, gravel and fertilizer through Port Charlottetown,” said Stan MacPherson, chair of the board of directors with the Charlottetown Harbour Authority.

“The positive economic impacts from this expansion will be felt across the Island and are a true indicator of the importance of all port activities. This berth expansion will allow Port Charlottetown to continue to grow and serve the needs of all Islanders well into the future.”