Welshpool Wharf is one step closer to realizing the goals of the Friar's Bay Development Association, with the joint announcements of nearly $843,000 of combined funding from the governments of Canada and New Brunswick. Karen Ludwig, member of Parliament for New Brunswick Southwest, announced a grant of $397,995, and New Brunswick Minister of Tourism, Heritage and Culture John Ames announced a separate grant of $444,816. Ames is also the MLA for the riding including Campobello. The announcements were made on July 9 before a group of about 50 that included community leaders from Lubec and Eastport as well as Campobello.
     The funds are to be used to rebuild the approach structure of the Welshpool Wharf, said Joseph Gough of the Friar's Bay group. The structure supporting the driving surface has partially collapsed, he said. "When it's rebuilt we'll be able to tie up vessels up to 160 feet at the dock," he says, observing that vessels up to 300 feet can be accommodated now by anchoring off the dock. The larger vessels will be able to tie up once the outer portion is rebuilt, which will be the next project.
     Rebuilding the approach structure is phase 2 of the wharf complex project. Phase 1 included rehabilitating Welshpool Hall, where the presentations were made.
     James Carr, superintendent of the Roosevelt Campobello International Park, also spoke, affirming the park's interest in the wharf and the development of tourism before introducing Ludwig.
     "How do we build from the ground up?" she asked, then explained, "Public investment is a way to develop the community." She also spoke of the role the park plays in developing tourism, bringing a laugh with an anecdote. "I tell people about the summer home of an American president, how the park is an international collaboration. 'Wait a minute,' they say. 'That's in Canada.'"
     When announcing the provincial contribution, Ames said, "We must make investments to support healthy communities." He added, "Keep in mind, there's a $3.19 return for every dollar invested." Gough spoke about how the development is expected to support regional development, pointing out that marine tourism can be the driving force behind broad‑based growth. "Each community has its own interests, but it is much more effective as a network." He closed his remarks by commenting, "It does seem we're going somewhere."