Crawford Lake visitors will soon have a high-tech resource to learn about its unique history.
An immersive holographic will be featured in the new visitor centre, scheduled for construction over the coming year and set to open in the fall of 2025.
“Guests will be able to interact in an immersive way and learn about the science and the stories of our special lake,” said Barb Veale, acting CAO, Conservation Halton.
The holographic installation is part of the nearly $1.3 million investment by FedDev Ontario through the Tourism Growth Program to support tourism projects for six organizations in Halton, Hamilton and surrounding areas.
The investment includes $250,000 for the holographic feature at Crawford Lake, and $250,000 for the new inflatable waterpark at Kelso.
“Our small and incredibly rare lake right there has helped scientists discover so much of the history of our peoples who once lived in this region, and how the evolution of human activities has affected our planet. Not just our local region, but the entire planet,” Veale said at the announcement at Crawford Lake Wednesday (July 3).
According to Veale, the new installation — a collaboration between Conservation Halton Foundation and Conservation Halton — is expected to draw 10,000 tourists annually.
Milton MP Adam van Koeverden, who also serves as the parliamentary secretary to the ministers of environment and climate change and sport and physical activity, said Halton and neighbouring Hamilton offer unique tourism destinations.
“Attractions like Crawford Lake are some of the things that make our region so special,” said van Koeverden.
“Crawford Lake is an important site for education, a special place to learn Indigenous culture and a beautiful natural landscape with trails for hiking and snowshoeing. They are destinations that allow visitors to connect with nature, which leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.”
Additional funding recipients include the Downtown Oakville BIA ($59,000), the Heart of Ontario: Hamilton Halton Brant ($200,000), Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation ($500,000) and Visit Oakville ($15,000).
