NOHFC Investing More Than $300,000 to Improve Trail Network in Thunder Bay
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New accessible trail system and amenities will enhance outdoor recreation for residents and visitors to enjoy
News Release | July 9th, 2026
THUNDER BAY — The Ontario government is investing $320,090 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to help the Lakehead Region Conservation Authority (LRCA) upgrade the Mills Block Conservation Area. As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario, the province is making strategic investments to help northern communities build and upgrade infrastructure, creating jobs and providing residents and visitors with safe, welcoming spaces to enjoy.
“Our government is proud to support projects that improve accessibility and expand recreational opportunities in Thunder Bay and across northern Ontario,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “The upgrades at the Mills Block Conservation Area will create a more welcoming outdoor destination for people of all abilities, while helping to showcase the natural beauty of the region and support local tourism.”
The Mills Block Conservation Area is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering year-round opportunities for recreation and environmental education. The planned improvements will increase accessibility throughout the site, creating new opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the natural environment. Enhanced visitor amenities will support tourism and encourage greater use of the conservation area.
“Mills Block Conservation Area is an important outdoor space for families, residents and visitors to enjoy nature close to home,” said Kevin Holland, MPP for Thunder Bay-Atikokan. “Through the NOHFC, our government is proud to support upgrades that improve accessibility, strengthen local recreation opportunities and help ensure this beautiful conservation area can be enjoyed for years to come.”
The LRCA is using NOHFC funding to undertake key capital improvements at the Mills Block Conservation Area that will support the installation of amenities in line with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). This includes the construction of an accessible looping trail system and boardwalk, the installation of a concrete vault washroom and trail toll booth and the expansion of the site’s trailhead staging area. These enhancements will improve access to nature-based recreation and create a better experience for all visitors.
“We are grateful to the Province and the NOHFC for this contribution to the Mills Block Project,” says LRCA Chair Donna Blunt. “Mills Block is one of our most popular Conservation Areas, and we are so excited to share these upgrades with the public.”
The Ontario government is prioritizing investments through the NOHFC that protect northern industries and jobs, mitigate the impacts of U.S. tariffs and trade disruptions and secure new opportunities for the long-term prosperity of Northern Ontario. The renewed focus is boosting competitiveness and ensuring the North remains a leader in Ontario’s economy. This new direction is in addition to the province’s investment of an additional $30 million over three years, bringing the NOHFC’s annual budget to a total of $110 million. Together, these initiatives will benefit communities of all sizes, both rural and urban, including Indigenous communities.
Quick Facts
Through its funding programs, the NOHFC offers support to public and private sector economic development projects across Northern Ontario.
Since June 2018, the NOHFC has invested more than $1 billion in over 8,600 projects in northern Ontario, leveraging more than $3.3 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 13,400 jobs.
Additional Resources
The NOHFC, Northern Development Offices and Small Business Enterprise Centres support northern communities, businesses and other stakeholders in identifying economic development opportunities and government funding programs.