Bringing More Tourists To Piece Of Canadian History

McGuinty Government Helps Upgrade Diefenbunker

The Diefenbunker Cold War Museum in Carp will soon be able to attract more visitors and create new jobs.

Through funding provided by the Rural Economic Development Program, the museum will be retrofited with fire protection and safety improvements. These improvements will allow the museum, which currently sees over 36,000 visitors per year, to double its expected visitation within three to five years.

Three permanent positions and four to seven part time/seasonal positions at the museum will be created through this investment. Local businesses within the surrounding rural area will also benefit from increased tourism.

QUOTES

“These upgrades will increase the sustainability of the Diefenbunker Cold War Museum, an important piece of Canadian history. The additional visitation and tourism spending will be a great benefit to the community of Carp and its surrounding rural areas.”
— Leona Dombrowsky, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs
 
“Increased exposure for Carp will help us market the Diefenbunker nationally and internationally providing visitors of all ages with the opportunity to learn about Canada’s history and our Cold War past.”
— Alexandra Badzak,  Executive Director, Diefenbunker Cold War Museum

QUICK FACTS

• This project is receiving over $385,000 through the Rural Economic Development Program, which invests in community-based projects in three priority areas: revitalized communities and downtowns, enhanced skills training, and improved access to health care services.

• Since 2003, Ontario has invested $74.8 million in 229 projects through the Rural Economic Development Program. 
• The secret bunker, nicknamed after John Diefenbaker, was built to protect the federal government from nuclear attack during the Cold War.
  

   

LEARN MORE

Learn more about The Diefenbunker - Canada’s Cold War Museum.  
Discover The Village of Carp.

For more information, contact:

Kelly Synnott, Minister's Office, 416-326-6439
Brent Ross, Communications Branch, 416-326-9342