St. Lawrence Parks Commission Secures $82.2M Investment in Infrastructure

July 8, 2025

Cornwall, ON – The Province of Ontario is investing an historic $82.2 million investment to modernize water and wastewater infrastructure across the Parks of the St. Lawrence and other key St. Lawrence Parks Commission (SLPC) sites.

“Every summer, Ontario’s lakes, rivers, beaches, and parkland attract millions of domestic and international tourists,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “Our investment will help ensure the St. Lawrence Parks Commission has the modern infrastructure it needs to improve its visitor experience and continue welcoming locals and guests from near and far for generations to come. Now more than ever, we need to protect Ontario by supporting the places and experiences that boost our economy and celebrate our heritage, culture, and natural beauty.”

The funding will help improve and maintain the corridor’s numerous parks, beaches and attractions, protecting one of eastern Ontario’s premier tourism destinations and ensuring they are ready to welcome visitors of all ages for years to come.

Ontario’s investment will support the second stage of the SLPC’s Septic, Washrooms and Drinking Water Revitalization Project, including the first septic upgrades in 60 years. The project includes:

construction of drinking water and wastewater connections to the neighbouring townships of South Stormont and South Dundas
decommissioning of associated septic systems and wells
construction of a new canteen, change rooms and washroom buildings at Mille Roches Beach and Campground

Once complete, the upgrades will provide SLPC with the necessary infrastructure and facilities to enhance environmental stewardship, reduce operational costs, create jobs, and save taxpayer dollars.

“The Ontario government’s investment is crucial to our promise to modernize the essential infrastructure within our parks,” said Bob Runciman, Chair of the St. Lawrence Parks Commission. “With the support of the province, we’re improving our parks, attractions and facilities that have long been gathering places for families and communities, ensuring they remain accessible, welcoming and sustainable for future generations.”

This $82.2 million investment is part of more than $120 million in total infrastructure improvements delivered since the launch of SLPC’s 2021–2026 Strategic Plan.

“Our strategic plan made it clear, investing in our infrastructure is investing in our future,” said Hollee Kew, General Manager and CEO of the St. Lawrence Parks Commission. “We’ve already completed essential upgrades at Brown’s Bay Beach, addressed major electrical needs at our Morrisburg campus, and are preparing to open a new Eco Comfort Hub at Glengarry Campground. This next step is about securing our foundation and ensuring the long-term vitality of our parks.”

Construction is expected to begin as early as fall 2025, with initial work focused on municipal water and sewer connections and the development of new facilities at Mille Roches. The full project is scheduled to be completed over a four-year period.

“Whether it’s the beach, Upper Canada Village or the campgrounds, St. Lawrence Parks are a treasured part of our community,” said Nolan Quinn, MPP for Stormont–Dundas–South Glengarry. “Through this vital investment, our government is ensuring that the St. Lawrence Parks Commission can enhance its facilities, allowing both Stormont–Dundas–South Glengarry residents and visitors from outside the region to continue enjoying these world-class destinations, right in the heart of our community.”

Plan a Visit!

The St. Lawrence Parks Commission operates over 3,000 campsites in the Cornwall area, along with Upper Canada Golf Course and the Long Sault Parkway, a popular day trip destination. All SLPC historic sites, parks and outdoor recreation facilities are open for the 2025 summer season. More information to help you plan your visit is available on the SLPC website.

Quick Facts

SLPC is an agency of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, and one of the largest tourism destinations in eastern Ontario. Their facilities include thousands of hectares of park land and attractions that provide a major source of recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
This funding builds on a nearly $10.5 million capital investment announced in 2021, including $3.1 million for the revitalization of Brown’s Bay.
Along with Brown’s Bay, Mille Roches is one of three campgrounds within the beautiful Long Sault Parkway. It boasts the largest sand beach on the St. Lawrence River corridor and is comprised of two islands surrounded by a dense forest, mature trees and active wildlife.

About The St. Lawrence Parks Commission

The St. Lawrence Parks Commission, an agency of the Government of Ontario, operates facilities stretching from Kingston to the Quebec border, including Upper Canada Village, Fort Henry National Historic Site of Canada (and a UNESCO World Heritage Site); Kingston Pen Tours, Crysler Park Marina, Upper Canada Golf Course, Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary and 10 campgrounds and 6 beach day-use picnic areas including the Long Sault and Thousand Islands Parkways.

To learn more, visit www.parks.on.ca.