Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie, announced a FedNor investment of $233,100 to support the development of a public access port in Sault Ste. Marie. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor.
The City of Sault Ste. Marie will use the FedNor funds to complete technical assessments and develop a comprehensive port development plan to guide the redevelopment and expansion of a public access marine port. The project aims to strategically enhance existing port infrastructure to meet growing demand for inbound and outbound goods and resource-based commodities among key industrial users in the region.
The development of a public access port is expected to expand economic opportunities by improving transportation capacity for regional critical minerals, biofuels, forest bioproducts, advanced manufacturing, and other potential industries. The project will also focus on building capacity among Canadian vessel operators, developing a governance model for port operations, and creating a long-term port development strategy to ensure sustainable success.
By modernizing infrastructure and providing public access, the initiative will help diversify the regional economy, strengthen supply chains, and position Sault Ste. Marie as a key hub for sustainable development in Northern Ontario.
Minister Patty Hajdu emphasized that investments in modern, reliable infrastructure are critical to Canada’s economic strength, protecting supply chains and building a resilient economy with lasting opportunities. MP Terry Sheehan highlighted that the project will create new economic opportunities, strengthen local economic resilience, and build on previous federal investments, including a $405,300 contribution from Transport Canada. Mayor Matthew Shoemaker noted that the timing of the Port of Algoma’s development represents a major step toward a stronger and more diverse local economy, with gratitude for FedNor’s support.
The funding was provided through the Northern Ontario Development Program (NODP), which supports projects led by municipalities, First Nations, and other organizations to advance community economic development, diversification, job creation, and self-reliance in Northern Ontario. The City of Sault Ste. Marie is situated on the original meeting grounds of the Batchewana and Anishinabek peoples in the heart of the Great Lakes.
