Economic Development News
Economic Development Update – Village of South River
1. Local Ride-Share Transit Initiative (Planning Stage)
The Village of South River is currently in the planning stage of introducing a local ride-share transit system designed to improve mobility and accessibility for residents, workers, and visitors. This initiative will prioritize local hiring, creating employment opportunities while strengthening community capacity.
Once implemented, the service will enhance local connectivity by linking neighbourhoods, employment locations, services, and regional transportation hubs. Importantly, the ride-share system is intended to complement the return of the Ontario Northlander rail service, providing first- and last-mile transportation options. Improved mobility supports workforce participation, access to education and healthcare, and helps local businesses attract both customers and employees- key drivers of sustainable economic development.
2. Return of Ontario Northlander Rail Service – 2026
The Village is pleased to welcome the return of Ontario Northlander passenger rail service in Fall 2026. South River will be the only train stop between Huntsville and North Bay, positioning the community as a strategic regional access point.
This renewed rail connection is expected to significantly enhance tourism, visitor spending, and regional visibility, while also supporting residents who commute or travel for education, healthcare, and employment. Improved regional accessibility strengthens South River’s competitiveness as a destination for investment, small business development, and tourism-related enterprises, including accommodations, food services, and cultural experiences.
3. Tom Thomson Park – Urban Dark Sky Park Designation (In Progress)
The Village is actively working toward securing an Urban Dark Sky Park designation for Tom Thomson Park. Building on the success of stargazing events hosted during Summer 2025, this designation would formally recognize the park as a unique natural and educational asset.
Urban dark sky initiatives support astro-tourism, cultural programming, and seasonal events, attracting visitors during shoulder seasons and extending overnight stays. This initiative aligns with broader tourism development goals, enhances the Village’s brand, and creates opportunities for partnerships with regional tourism organizations, local businesses, and educational institutions.
4. Restored Train Station – Commercial Space Available for Lease
The South River Train Station, a newly restored and highly visible heritage building, is now ready for commercial lease opportunities. The space offers an exceptional opportunity for entrepreneurs and businesses seeking a distinctive location tied to regional transportation and tourism.
Activating the station with a commercial tenant will contribute to downtown revitalization, increase foot traffic, and support complementary businesses. With the return of passenger rail service, the station is well-positioned to host uses such as retail, professional services, cultural enterprises, or tourism-focused operations- further strengthening the local economy.
5. Village-Owned Multipurpose Building (Former Brewery) – For Sale
The village-owned multipurpose building (former brewery) is currently available for sale, presenting a unique opportunity for private investment and business expansion. The facility offers flexible space suitable for manufacturing, food production, creative industries, or mixed-use commercial purposes.
Redevelopment of this asset supports long-term economic growth by encouraging private sector investment, job creation, and diversification of the local economy. The sale of this property aligns with the Village’s broader economic development strategy to activate underutilized assets and attract sustainable, community-focused enterprises.
6. Municipal Investment in Solar Energy Opportunities (In Progress)
The Village of South River is actively exploring solar energy initiatives as part of its commitment to sustainability, cost efficiency, and long-term economic resilience. These efforts focus on assessing opportunities for renewable energy generation on municipal assets and lands, with the dual objective of reducing operational costs and supporting environmental stewardship.
Investing in solar energy positions the Village to attract green investment, support climate-resilient infrastructure, and demonstrate leadership in clean energy adoption. Over the long term, renewable energy projects can generate operational savings, create skilled employment opportunities, and enhance South River’s appeal to environmentally conscious businesses and residents.
7. Supporting Newcomer Settlement and Workforce Integration
The Village continues to support newcomer settlement and integration as a key component of workforce development and community growth. South River works in collaboration with the North Bay Multicultural Centre, connecting newcomers to settlement services, employment supports, and job search resources.
By supporting newcomers in their transition to the community, the Village strengthens local labour supply, supports employers facing workforce shortages, and fosters an inclusive, welcoming environment. These efforts contribute to population retention, economic stability, and long-term community sustainability.
8. Business Promotion and Marketing Initiatives (Ongoing)
The Village of South River has recently launched business promotion initiatives aimed at increasing visibility for local enterprises and strengthening the community’s economic profile. This includes the production of promotional videos highlighting local businesses, assets, and opportunities, with additional marketing content currently in development.
Businesses interested in participating in promotional initiatives or seeking support with visibility and outreach are encouraged to contact the Economic Development Office. These initiatives support local entrepreneurship, attract visitors and investors, and reinforce South River’s identity as an active, business-friendly community.