The Municipality of Tantramar has taken an important step by purchasing the historic Sackville VIA Train Station. This agreement secures the station’s future revitalization through a protocol with VIA Rail Canada Inc. The municipality will take over the station without paying any fees and in return will undertake tasks such as snow removal and maintenance.
Renewals and Travel Experience Improvements
Once the renovations are complete, VIA Rail passengers will enjoy the comfort of a modernized, covered waiting area. The station’s upgrades both improve the facilities and significantly enhance the travel experience. Tantramar Mayor Andrew Black emphasized the agreement’s efforts to preserve the municipality’s cultural heritage and its goals of stimulating economic growth in the area. “Council strives to preserve history and ignite economic growth together,” he said.
An Important Step for Society: Preservation of the Station
This agreement allows Tantramar to preserve a historic site while also ensuring rail links across the region are maintained. The municipality plans to lease the historic station to local businesses, which will increase commercial activity in the area and ensure the station’s sustainability.
Federal Laws and the Public Participation Process
The sale of the historic Sackville VIA Train Station is governed by federal laws such as the Heritage Train Station Preservation Act. This process provides an opportunity to solicit objections for sixty days through a public notice. Officials will publish the notice to gather public input, and the results will be available for public review.
Economic Growth and Job Opportunities
With this step, Tantramar is not only preserving the cultural heritage, but also promoting economic growth and sustainability in the area. The renovated station will provide new rental opportunities for local businesses, creating jobs and increasing foot traffic in the area. This renovation process informs and involves the people of Tantramar.
Future Perspective and Tantramar's Modeling Goal
This acquisition and renovation reflects Tantramar’s efforts to blend past and future through the intelligent management of historic assets. The renovated station will be an important part of Tantramar’s economy and will continue to attract visitors. Tantramar is creating a model that fosters sustainable growth and innovation across Canada by taking a bold and proactive approach to heritage preservation.
This partnership with VIA Rail permanently preserves the legacy of Sackville VIA Train Station and takes a strong step for Tantramar to carry this historic landmark into the future.
