attract new enterprises, and ensure downtowns remain accessible as population density increases. Tourism and economic development are increasingly aligned, with the township advancing plans to establish a dedicated municipal service corporation to enhance capacity and coordination across these portfolios. STRATEGIC GROWTH AND BUSINESS INVESTMENT Centre Wellington’s growth trajectory is supported by strong fundamentals: location, infrastructure, and proactive governance.The township offers business incentives through its Community Improvement Plan, including grants for façade upgrades and underutilized properties, as well as a Tax Increment Equivalent Grant program designed to encourage significant private-sector investment. A township-initiated business park in North Fergus further underscores Centre Wellington’s commitment to being “open for business.” Fully serviced and municipally developed, the park provides expansion opportunities for local employers while attracting new companies seeking proximity to regional transportation corridors. Manufacturing, agri-business, automotive, and equipment production have long been economic anchors, complemented by a rapidly expanding tourism sector that sees hundreds of thousands of visitors annually—particularly in Elora. INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT SUPPORTING THE FUTURE Growth on this scale requires foresight, and Centre Wellington is responding with significant capital investment in roads, water, and wastewater infrastructure. A recent $6.8-million grant from Ontario’s Ministry of Infrastructure is enabling the extension of servicing to South Fergus, unlocking development potential for thousands of new homes and highway-commercial opportunities along Highway 6. At the same time, the township is working closely with provincial partners to re-envision Highway 6’s role as both a regional transportation corridor 146 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 07, ISSUE 01
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