Two of the historical sandstone buildings at the former St. Marys Paper mill in Sault Ste. Marie are getting some renovations, thanks to $2.1 million in federal government funding.
The funds will go to enhance the performance and music education areas of the primary facility used by the Algoma Conservatory of Music, along with technical upgrades to an adjacent building used by the conservatory and other presenters in the community.
Of the funds, $2 million will come from the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund, and the remaining $100,000 will come from the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program.
“I’m delighted that today’s announcement will ensure that this important historical building remains a source of community pride and a beautiful venue for cultural events and performances,” said Terry Sheehan, MP for Sault Ste. Marie.
“Furthermore, our investment supports the City of Sault Ste. Marie’s plan to redevelop the downtown site where the building is located, drawing visitors to the area and generating business for area merchants.”
Five sandstone buildings were built by lumber baron Francis H. Clergue in 1901 as part of his lumber operation. They most recently were home to the former St. Marys Paper mill, but have been repurposed since the company went bankrupt and the mill closed indefinitely in 2011.
Spearheaded by Riversedge Developments, the complex has become known as Mill Square.
The conservatory has used the space since 2014. Additional operations currently on site include the Millworks Centre for Entrepreneurship, a small-business incubator, and the Machine Shop, an event and concert venue.
Future plans for the site include Destination North, a tourist attraction, and Board Mill, a farmers market.
The Algoma Conservatory of Music, established in 1971, is the largest music organization in Sault Ste. Marie and the second largest not-for-profit music education centre in Ontario.
