Retaining, expanding and attracting

Niagara Falls is famous as a spectacular natural wonder, a world class entertainment/gaming destination and as a historic center for power generation.

It is a priority to attract new business sectors that are non-tourism related. We have had some successes and should work towards more diversification which will lend to a more stable economy.

It is just as crucial to redouble our efforts in supporting our existing business community in all sectors through these challenging times.

Lori is proud to be part of the effort to diversify the economy of Niagara Falls. Recent achievements include designating and purchasing land that will be used for employment lands, welcoming a cutting-edge hydrogen energy generation plant and enhancing Community Improvement Plans (CIP) such as:

– Brownfield Environmental Study Grant
– Brownfield Tax Increment Grant
– Urban Infill Tax Increment Grant
– Employment Generator Tax Increment Grant
– Streetscape Improvement Grant

Find more information on the CIP.

The global brand of Niagara Falls is historically associated with the birth of hydroelectric power generation. We can expand on this legacy and the infrastructure already in place to become a modern center of energy excellence. Cutting edge technology in the areas of energy storage, distribution and alternative sources and methods of generation are key.

If we are successful at this, other satellite industries will establish themselves here.

Focusing on diversification, let’s accentuate the natural geographic wonder that is the Niagara Region and expand awareness of that globally. The proposed UNESCO Geopark designation would be a significant step in that direction and open up a new avenue through which visitors can experience Niagara Falls.

Tourism will always be a major economic driver for our city. Over the years, we have approved many hotel projects that have not come to fruition. The Province has introduced Destination Niagara and we need to be aware of the advantages and disadvantages that this may bring to our City and how it will affect our residents. Community feedback from our residents and business is crucial.