THUNDER BAY – Ontario is putting over $2.8 million into port upgrades in Thunder Bay and Marathon. This move aims to enhance local supply chains, develop east-west trade routes, and lessen dependence on U. S. markets.
Funding focuses on Thunder Bay and Marathon port facilities
The province revealed on June 16 that it will provide $2,804,955 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation for improvements at the Port of Thunder Bay and the Peninsula Harbour Port Authority in Marathon. Premier Doug Ford stated that this investment is part of Ontario’s strategy to create a more competitive and self-sufficient economy. “By expanding the Port of Thunder Bay and creating a new marine terminal in Marathon, we’re helping Northern Ontario ports increase cargo volumes to ship everything from grain and potash to components for pipelines and critical minerals from the Ring of Fire,” Ford said. The Premier noted that the province will keep investing in infrastructure across Northern Ontario to support local industries, businesses, and workers while promoting regional economic growth.Thunder Bay receives funding for Keefer Terminal expansion
The Thunder Bay Port Authority is set to get $804,955 to enlarge the staging and storage area at Keefer Terminal by 10 acres. This extra space is meant to boost capacity for cargo like wind turbine parts, steel, and oversized freight. The province claims this expansion will allow the port to manage larger volumes, keep current business steady, and enhance Thunder Bay’s status as a hub for interprovincial and international trade. In 2025, over 10.7 million metric tonnes of cargo flowed through the Port of Thunder Bay, including grain, potash, and natural resources. According to provincial sources, most of that cargo was shipped domestically or internationally outside the United States. Chris Heikkinen, CEO of the Port of Thunder Bay, mentioned that this funding would aid in enhancing expansion efforts and efficiency improvements at Keefer Terminal. “Strategically located as the furthest inland port in Canada, this premier intermodal facility is a vital supply chain link serving western Canada and Northern Ontario,” Heikkinen said. “Expanding laydown capacity will enhance our ability to handle increased and more diversified cargo while supporting inbound opportunities.”Marathon port project receives $2 million
The Peninsula Harbour Port Authority will receive $2 million aimed at repurposing unused commercial docks at the site of the former Marathon Pulp mill. This project seeks to establish a marine terminal capable of transporting regional materials such as critical minerals, forest products, road salt along with components for pipelines and wind turbines toward southern Ontario as well as global markets. The port authority was established in November 2020 through an equal partnership between the Town of Marathon and Biigtigong Nishnaabeg First Nation. The province anticipates that this terminal will be operational by late 2027. Chief Duncan Michano from Biigtigong Nishnaabeg expressed that this investment holds great significance for their First Nation alongside its collaboration with Marathon. “This project will allow our First Nation to continue diversifying our economic portfolio while creating additional opportunities for partnerships within our region as well as beyond,” Michano said. Marathon Mayor Rick Dumas who also serves as president of the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association stated that this initiative aims at unlocking regional economic potential. “As the closest international port to the Ring of Fire, it’s positioned perfectly to support mining activities along with forestry operations renewable energy projects throughout our region,” Dumas shared. He added that upgrading this terminal according to St. Lawrence Seaway standards would revitalize a former brownfield pulp mill site while fostering long-term employment opportunities along with sustainable economic growth for both Marathon along with Biigtigong Nishnaabeg.Province links ports to trade security & northern jobs
Northern Economic Development Minister George Pirie emphasized how these investments aim at improving access toward cost-efficient marine transport which is crucial for resource-driven industrial operations within Northwestern Ontario. “We are helping these ports be better positioned so they can attract new cargo while expanding existing business which reinforces northwestern Ontario’s role as a competitive gateway not just locally but also internationally,” Pirie said. Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria highlighted how marine transport significantly contributes towards Ontario’s economy acting like an essential channel moving goods all around both provincial boundaries alongside national borders too! “Our strategic investments into marine infrastructure serve multiple purposes-strengthening supply chains supporting good-paying jobs among workers based outta Northern Ontarians attracting fresh investments stimulating overall growth across regions!” remarked Sarkaria enthusiastically! Thunder Bay-Atikokan MPP Kevin Holland added his insights stating these projects would fortify Northwestern Ontario’s standing especially when it comes down trading prospects! “By expanding modernizing existing harbor facilities located within both cities namely ‘Thunder Bay’ & ‘Marathon’ we’re backing decent wage jobs enhancing resilience amidst supply chain challenges ensuring our territory remains competitive growing steadily during ever-changing global circumstances.” he asserted!A central role remains intact regarding transportation-related issues surrounding ‘Thunder Bay’ !
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