SUNDRIDGE - The Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry and Member of Parliament for Parry Sound-Muskoka, announced approval of a project to upgrade sidewalks in the Almaguin Highlands community of Sundridge, in advance of the Huntsville 2010 G8 Summit.

This $125 000 project represents Phase II of Sundridge's downtown revitalization plan, including new sidewalks along John Street and a new picnic shelter in the Sundridge Lions Park. Funding is provided by the G8 Legacy Infrastructure Fund, which was set up to help prepare the Parry Sound-Muskoka region for its role in hosting the G8 Summit from June 25 to 27, 2010.

"As the gateway to the beautiful Almaguin Highlands, Sundridge is a jewel in the crown of Parry Sound-Muskoka," said Minister Clement. "We want everyone attending the G8 Summit to see this region at its best. Through strategic investments in local infrastructure, we are ensuring that the region makes the most of the economic opportunities that hosting this prestigious event will yield."

"We welcome this federal funding," said Elgin Schneider, Mayor of Sundridge. "This investment will serve Sundridge not only through improved infrastructure but also through creating jobs andhelping us present our community at its best."

The $50-million G8 Legacy Infrastructure Fund was set up in February 2009 and is dedicated to legacy projects in the Parry Sound-Muskoka area. This strategy corresponds with Canada's Economic Action Plan to strengthen Northern Ontario communities.

The 2010 G8 Summit will generate significant short- and long-term economic benefits for the region and the province and will be an exceptional opportunity for Canada to shine on the world stage.

The G8 is composed of eight of the world's leading economic powers: Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States. The annual summit is a chance for the leaders of the G8 countries to meet face to face and develop common approaches to current challenges facing the world.