Ontario Investing $1 Million to Modernize and Revitalize Michipicoten Harbour

The Ontario government is investing $1 million through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to help the Superior Aggregates Corporation modernize and reactivate the underused port infrastructure at Michipicoten Harbour, near Wawa. As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario, the province is making strategic investments in key infrastructure to reduce transportation barriers for northern Ontario businesses and strengthen regional supply chains. By enhancing this strategic gateway that connects northern Ontario to Great Lakes shipping networks, we are building a more competitive resilient and self-reliant economy.

“Our government is supporting access to cost-efficient marine transportation for resource and industrial operations located in northern Ontario,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “We are helping revitalize this underused port, expand existing businesses, improve access to new and existing markets and reinforce northern Ontario’s role as a competitive gateway for provincial, interprovincial and international trade.”

Superior Aggregates Corporation is using NOHFC funding to improve and reopen port infrastructure at Michipicoten Harbour, which has not been used since shipping ceased in the late 1990s. Repairs, structural upgrades and the acquisition of required equipment will give Superior Aggregates Corporation access to new markets in Central and Eastern Canada through the St. Lawrence Seaway. This project will create good-paying jobs, with the potential for more as business increases. A shared-use model will benefit other regional producers such as the forestry and mining sectors.

This work builds upon other provincial investments through the NOHFC that supported the development and modernization of port infrastructure on Lake Superior. Investments such as these will help facilitate stronger east-west trade links and diversification of export markets for Ontario products.

“With transportation costs escalating daily and a global shortage of long-haul drivers, revitalizing our marine transport capabilities at Michipicoten Harbor is vital,” said Mark Rainone, General Manager of Superior Aggregates Corporation. “To navigate these broader industry challenges and remain globally competitive, strategic investment in vessel logistics is essential. Re-embracing waterborne freight historically the primary mode of transportation ensures our long-term sustainability and strengthens our position in both Canadian and international markets. This momentum is already taking shape on the ground. Our volume and workforce have both doubled, underscoring the immediate demand for expanded capacity. Superior Aggregates Corp. is deeply grateful to MPP Rosenberg, and the NOHFC for believing in this vision and recognizing the critical need for regional infrastructure investment.”

“We are proud to support this investment in repairs and upgrades to Michipicoten Harbour,” said Bill Rosenberg, MPP for Algoma-Manitoulin. “This funding will ensure the longevity of this harbour continues for decades to come and that routes of maritime transportation have a safe harbour from Lake Superior. Congratulations to everyone whose dedication and hard work have made this project possible and to NOHFC for funding this important project.”

The Ontario government is prioritizing investments through the NOHFC that protect northern industries and jobs, mitigate the impacts of U.S. tariffs and trade disruptions and secure new opportunities for the long-term prosperity of northern Ontario. The renewed focus is boosting competitiveness and ensuring the North remains a leader in Ontario’s economy. This new direction is in addition to the province’s increased investment, bringing the NOHFC’s annual budget to a total of $110 million. Together, these initiatives will benefit communities of all sizes, both rural and urban, including Indigenous communities.