THUNDER BAY –The ground has now been broken for the Mary J. L. Black branch of the Thunder Bay Public Library. “The federal government’s support for the Mary J. L. Black public library branch demonstrates that infrastructure initiatives go beyond roads and bridges to embrace the cultural projects at the heart of Canadian communities,” said John Baird, Canada’s Minister of Transport and Infrastructure. “This dynamic project will create jobs when they’re needed most, providing a modern centre for lifelong learning in today’s knowledge-based economy.”
Bill Mauro, Member of Provincial Parliament for Thunder Bay—Atikokan, and Acting Mayor Joe Virdiramo, representing the City of Thunder Bay, held a groundbreaking ceremony earlier today celebrating the start of construction of the new Mary J. L. Black branch of the Thunder Bay Public Library.
“Our support for this project clearly represents the McGuinty government’s commitment to enriching the cultural landscape of Ontario,” said Mauro. “Thanks to our Open Ontario plan, the residents of Thunder Bay will continue to enjoy access to institutions that encourage exploration, education and innovation.”
“The new library will create a multi-purpose neighbourhood hub that will be available to all in Thunder Bay and provide a model for future developments,” said Virdiramo. “It’s consistent with the aims of Renew Thunder Bay to invest in highly leveraged strategic infrastructure that enhances our quality of life.”
This project will replace the existing 70-year-old branch, in need of significant repairs, with an accessible building that will be more environmentally friendly than its predecessor.
The total project cost is estimated at $4.11 million. The governments of Canada and Ontario are each providing up to $1.37 million under the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund. The City of Thunder Bay is contributing the remaining $1.37 million.