Centennial Power Tunnel Opens in Niagara Falls to Boost Ontario’s Tourism Industry | Globalnews.ca

Visitors flock to Niagara Falls over Canada Day weekend to catch a glimpse of the cascading water from a view never before seen by the public.

A 2,200-foot-long, century-old water tunnel located nearly 200 feet below the surface of a power plant leads to a water-level viewing platform. It offers unobstructed panoramic views of the Horseshoe and American Falls.

“It really is the light at the end of the tunnel for COVID-19. People can get out and enjoy life and exploration again,” said Kim Viney, senior director of business development for Niagara Parks.

Officially opening on July 1, the tunnel expands the visitor experience at Niagara Parks Power Station by providing an underground view of the building’s vast underground infrastructure.

Upon entering the powerhouse, visitors are whisked down a 180-foot-deep elevator shaft with glass doors, stepping back in time in the historic trail racing tunnel.

Once you reach the designated depth, you are greeted by a massive brick-lined tunnel. This is where the 2,200 foot journey begins. This tunnel is where the wastewater from the power plant flowed through this marvel of engineering on its way back to the Niagara River. Now, instead of raging waters, you are greeted by a concrete path accessible to all.

The journey through the tunnel engages all the senses. As visitors walk by, the can begins to smell moisture in the air and hears the thunderous sound of falling water.

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They are finally greeted by the raging waters of the Niagara River as they emerge from the tunnel onto a new viewing platform located just above the water.

“We started this project in earnest a week before the world went into lockdown in March 2020, and we had to make an honest decision whether we were going to continue or put it on hold,” Viney said. The project received a $25 million loan from the Ontario government as funding was provided to reduce the impact of COVID-19 on Niagara’s $2.4 billion tourism industry.

Rather than bow to these challenges, Niagara Parks decided to double down and keep 500 employees working through the first year of COVID. The project was completed on time and within budget.

“This has been a very challenging time for the tourism sector, but today the Niagara Region will begin to reopen its world-class attractions and embark on the road to recovery,” Heritage Minister Lisa MacLeod said during a Press release in summer 2020.

As visitors took in the tunnel and falls for the first time, many were heard admiring the breathtaking sight that lay before their eyes.

“When you turn the corner, you start to hear the rumble and see the light. It’s creepy and beautiful at the same time,” said one visitor.

The attraction is open daily and is expected to be open year-round. More information can be found, including the price of tickets. online.