with access to Highway 401 and railways, the park provides excellent connectivity to markets across Southwestern Ontario and the GTA, representing exceptional value at $250,000 per acre. REGIONAL IMPORTANCE AND ECONOMIC CONNECTION The town’s position within the Great Lakes region provides economic leverage while offering residents recreational benefits. This combination has helped fuel Tillsonburg’s growth to approximately 21,000 residents over the past eight years, making it the third fastest growing community in its category according to the last census. The Town’s retail gap analysis for the downtown commercial sector revealed positive results. The town is experiencing growth, with the downtown sector expanding alongside increases in the 29- to 39-year-old demographic. Additionally, the child population has increased by 500 compared to five years ago, indicating successful attraction of young families—a key factor for organizations seeking readily available workforces. “Toronto drives a tremendous amount of economic activity in Canada and within the Midwest. Detroit is one of those anchor cities as well. This whole area is part of the Great Lakes region that encircles the lakes,” Panschow notes. The unique positioning within this economic corridor, particularly along Highway 3, has created a community that balances industrial strength with quality of life, attracting both businesses and families seeking alternatives to larger urban centers. FROM LAKE ERIE TO LOCAL AMENITIES Tillsonburg’s recreational infrastructure forms the backbone of its community development strategy, positioning the town as a magnet for active families and sports enthusiasts seeking small-town charm with big-city amenities. “Within half an hour’s drive of Tillsonburg, you have access to great beaches, swimming, boating, and other water sports,” says Panschow.“Within Tillsonburg, we have a smaller lake called Lake Lisgar for smaller water recreational activities from fishing to nonmotorized boating, canoeing, and kayaking. We have 144 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 05
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