Ontario has confirmed $172,102 for the Beardmore Snowman restoration, part of a wider northern tourism package

BEARDMORE – Ontario has confirmed $172,102 in Northern Ontario Heritage Fund support for the restoration of the Beardmore Snowman, one of Northwestern Ontario’s best-known roadside landmarks.

The funding was included in a $1.8-million tourism package announced Thursday for 11 projects across Northern Ontario. The province says the Greenstone project covers structural repairs, repainting and other improvements intended to extend the landmark’s life and support local tourism.

The announcement confirms provincial support for work that was already underway. Greenstone said in July that council had approved the project through its 2026 capital budget, with the heritage fund covering 75 per cent. Construction was scheduled to begin July 22.

The municipality said the structure would be clad and coated with polyurea, a material chosen to resist moisture, impacts, ultraviolet light and large temperature swings. Those conditions are particularly relevant in Beardmore, where freeze-thaw cycles and winter weather can accelerate deterioration.

Mayor James McPherson called the Snowman a community symbol and a landmark for travellers. The structure stands along Highway 11 in Beardmore, a Greenstone community that relies in part on highway traffic and outdoor tourism.