News Release

MCADAM (GNB) – Provincial and federal officials announced a more than $1 million investment today in upgrades to the energy system at McAdam Railway Station that will reduce heating costs and extend the tourism season.

“The McAdam Railway Station is the hub of the community of McAdam and a beloved attraction for residents and for visitors to and from the province,” said Kathy Bockus, the minister responsible for Seniors. “With this investment, the McAdam Historical Restoration Commission will be able to install geothermal heating, extend the season, increase visitation and contribute to the local economy.”

Bockus spoke on behalf of Réjean Savoie, minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation.

The project will support the installation of a new geothermal green energy system, reducing the organization’s electricity costs by at least 50 per cent. The savings will allow the McAdam Railway Station to extend its tourism season from four to eight months.

“I am so pleased that our government, through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, is supporting green projects like the McAdam Historical Restoration Commission’s railway station, which strengthen a significant tourism attraction, empower healthier communities and contribute to a strong economy in a rural area,” said Fredericton MP Jenica Atwin.

Atwin attended the event for Rural Economic Development Minister Gudie Hutchings, who is also minister responsible for ACOA.

The province is investing $350,000 in the project through the Regional Development Corporation, while the federal government is providing $750,000 through ACOA.

“Funding being made available by the Government of Canada and the Government of New Brunswick will make it possible for the McAdam Railway Station to install geothermal heating and cooling to meet the current and future needs of this treasured icon in our community,” said Elsie Carroll, president of the McAdam Historical Restoration Commission. “This initiative ensures a healthy environment and a viable economy that will thrive in a low-carbon world due to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Not only are the objectives of this project a priority of governments at all levels, but likewise for our organization. Estimates of our annual electricity costs for this treasured provincial and national historic site are anticipated to be reduced by 50 per cent.”