You can often judge the importance of an announcement by the number of people who show up to witness it being made. A commitment of $82.2 million over four years to the St. Lawrence Parks Commission (SLPC) was just such an event. From left: Steve Clark, MPP for Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes, Bob Runciman, Chair of the St. Lawrence Parks Commission, Holly Kew, St. Lawrence Parks Commission, Tourism, Culture and Gaming Minister Stan Cho, Nolan Quinn, MPP for Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry, South Dundas Mayor Jason Broad, South Stormont Mayor Bryan McGillis, South Dundas Deputy Mayor Marc St. Pierre, South Dundas Councillor Cole Veinotte. Heidi MacKenzie Photo

LONG SAULT – The Ontario government has announced a commitment of over $82 million over four years to support a major infrastructure overhaul by the St. Lawrence Parks Commission (SLPC), aimed at upgrading aging systems and facilities throughout the park system, including at Mille Roches Beach and Campground in the Long Sault Parkway.

The funding, part of a multi-year revitalization effort, will help modernize core infrastructure such as drinking water, wastewater, and septic systems, some of which have not been updated in over six decades. The investment is expected to improve park operations, support environmental stewardship, and enhance the overall visitor experience across SLPC-managed properties.

According to the province, the funding will support the second phase of the SLPC’s Septic, Washrooms and Drinking Water Revitalization Project. The planned work includes:

  • Connecting SLPC facilities to municipal drinking water and wastewater systems in South Stormont and South Dundas
  • Decommissioning aging septic systems and private wells
  • Constructing new washroom buildings, change rooms, and a canteen at Mille Roches Beach and Campground

Tourism, Culture and Gaming Minister Stan Cho, who was on hand for the announcement said the investment reflects the province’s commitment to maintaining parks and public spaces that support both local communities and the broader tourism economy.

“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,” said Minister Cho, who also gave credit to MPP’s Steve Clark and Nolan Quinn for their tireless efforts in pursuing this very much needed investment. “Without Minister Quinn and our government House leader MPP Clark, we’re not making this announcement here today,” said Minister Cho.

Officials say the project is intended not only to upgrade infrastructure but also to reduce long-term operational costs, create employment opportunities, and ensure facilities meet modern environmental standards.

Bob Runciman, Chair of the St. Lawrence Parks Commission, welcomed the provincial funding, stating that it was “crucial to our promise to modernize the essential infrastructure within our parks.”

“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,” he said.

According to Runciman, in addition to the connection of the campgrounds on the Long Sault Parkway, there will also be new washrooms and a waterfront cafe at Mille Roches and new washrooms on Snetsinger Island.

Nolan Quinn, MPP for Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry applauded the government for recognizing the value of the parks to the residents of their respective communities as well as those that come to visit.

“As a lifelong resident of Stormont, Dundas, and South Glengarry, I take great pride in the St. Lawrence Parks,” said MPP Quinn. “These parks aren’t just scenic destinations; they’re woven into the very fabric of our communities. Generations of families have spent countless summers on these beaches. Students find their first jobs here, and every season, small businesses benefit from the visitors who come to experience the natural beauty, charm and hospitality of our region.

“Tourism is more than just an industry in Stormont Dundas, and South Glengarry, it’s a key part of our identity and a driving force in our local economy, from our historic towns and riverfront trails to our local campgrounds and cultural festivals, this region offers something for everyone. That’s why I’m proud to be here for this exciting announcement today, which is about protecting and strengthening Ontario’s tourism sector, not just for today, but for future generation and decades to come.”

South Dundas Mayor Jason Broad applauded the provincial government for realizing the value of this investment to all the parties involved.

“This is a landmark investment in the future of our region’s tourism and environment,” said Mayor Broad. “The provincial government’s $82.2 million commitment will not only enhance visitor experiences at Upper Canada Village, our beaches and campgrounds, but it will also strengthen vital infrastructure for communities like South Dundas. Connecting Park facilities to municipal water and wastewater systems is a forward-thinking move that supports public health, environmental stewardship and long-term economic sustainability. We thank the province and the St. Lawrence Parks Commission for recognizing the value of our natural spaces and ensuring they remain accessible, safe and welcoming for generations to come.”

Speaking on behalf of SDG, Warden Martin Lang thanked Minister Cho for his work in making this investment happen.

“This major provincial investment marks a turning point for tourism, environmental infrastructure and contributes to long-term economic growth across SDG Counties,” said Warden Lang. “Attractions along the St. Lawrence River, like popular beaches and campgrounds, will see improvements to critical infrastructure. We are excited to see these improvements deliver lasting benefits to local communities and visitors alike. I wish to personally thank Minister Stan Cho for all his work in helping to solidify this grant. On behalf of SDG Counties, I once again extend our sincere thanks to the Province and the St. Lawrence Parks Commission for their commitment to preserving and improving the natural and cultural assets that define our region.”

South Stormont Mayor Bryan McGillis, in who’s township the Long Sault Parkway is located, commented on the value of the partnership that exists between the SLPC and South Stormont.

“The announcement by the Ontario government about the substantial $82.2 million investment will bring significant improvements to the overall visitor and camper experience on the Long Sault Parkway,” said Mayor McGillis. “The campgrounds and the beach front will be enhanced by the improvements. The Parks Commission’s sustainability through the operational improvements ensures our shared partnership will continue. The Township of South Stormont values our partnership with the St Lawrence Parks Commission, and we applaud everyone’s efforts to continue developing tourism opportunities in our Township.”

The announcement of the revitalization comes as the SLPC 2025 summer season is well underway.

The St. Lawrence Parks Commission is an agency of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming and manages one of the largest tourism operations in eastern Ontario. Its holdings span thousands of hectares of parkland and include beaches, trails, campgrounds, and historical sites.

The new funding follows a $10.5 million capital investment announced in 2021, which included $3.1 million designated for the revitalization of Brown’s Bay.

Mille Roches Beach, located on the Long Sault Parkway, is one of three SLPC-managed campgrounds in the area. The site features the largest sandy beach along the St. Lawrence River corridor and occupies two islands surrounded by mature forests and wildlife. The Parkway was created during the creation of the St. Lawrence Seaway.