Nova Scotia’s Waterfront Development Corp. is getting a new and mandate, the province announced on Thursday.
Rebranded as Develop Nova Scotia, the Crown corporation will now be tasked with driving economic development across the province.
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“We recognize Waterfront Development’s inherent strengths in project management and its strong relationships with rural communities,” said Geoff MacLellan, Nova Scotia’s Minister of Business, on Thursday.
“Now, as Develop Nova Scotia, its mandate will include the entire province, working closely with all of our municipalities to help us grow our economy in strong, vibrant communities.”
It’s first big project is already set, with the government announcing that Develop Nova Scotia will develop and manage a plan to expand high-speed internet in rural areas of the province.
The plan will be developed in connection the Nova Scotia Internet Funding Trust, the province said.
Jennifer Angel, the CEO of Develop Nova Scotia, says that a community engagement process on the rural internet project is set to begin next week, with a plan to begin work this fiscal year.
Angel said that the crown corp will take a look at hiring 10 to 15 people for the internet project and are asking for $750,000 in transition funds and an additional $2.5 million in annual funding.
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Waterfront Development Corp., was previously tasked with developing the province’s waterfronts as cultural and artistic hubs.
The province is expected to formally create the new Crown corporation through legislation in the fall.