Diefenbunker recipient of $600,000 federal grant

CARP – The federal government bestowed $600,000 on the Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum today (July 6) which will be used in part to “safely welcome back visitors,” after two years of struggling to deal with COVID-19 impacts on the tourism industry and a facility with no windows.

“Community infrastructure is vital to the health of our communities and the quality of life for Canadians,” the federal government released in a statement today (July 6). “The Government of Canada is committed to supporting the growth of local communities to position themselves for a strong and resilient economic future.”

Today, on behalf of the Honourable Helena Jaczek, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), Jenna Sudds, Member of Parliament for Kanata–Carleton, announced $600,000 in total support for the Diefenbunker.

“The Diefenbunker is a world-renowned museum that attracts thousands of visitors each year,” Sudds said during the announcement just inside the entrance. “Through today’s investments, the Government of Canada is supporting necessary infrastructure upgrades to enhance accessibility as well as upgrades to service offerings, both of which will improve the visitor experience at this public space and continue to drive tourism in the Ottawa area.”

With these investments, the museum will upgrade and enhance its facility to safely welcome back visitors. With $412,500 through the Tourism Relief fund, the Diefenbunker will transform its services and products to enhance visitor experiences through exhibition development, including dedicated space to highlight the Indigenous experience during the Cold War.

This funding will also support the addition of Algonquin to the tour’s audio guide languages and offer a new immersive experience with the development of an augmented reality emergency preparedness gamified simulation.

With $187,500 through the Canada Community Revitalization fund, the Diefenbunker will improve its accessibility and energy efficiency by upgrading its controls and lighting. This project will benefit people with disabilities, specifically those with low vision or visual impairments as effective lighting and glare control will be improved.

“Through investments like these, the Government of Canada is committed to helping businesses and communities recover from the pandemic and prepare for future growth,” the federal government said.

Quotes “The Government of Canada is investing in community infrastructure and tourist attractions like the Diefenbunker to bring neighbourhoods together and attract tourists from around the world,” Helena Jaczek, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, said. “Today’s investment will help position the local community for a strong and resilient future, enhancing the quality of life for its residents.”