Ruthven Park

With support from Haldimand County's Rural Business and Tourism Community Improvement Plan (RBTCIP), Ruthven Park National Historic Site has enhanced its event facilities to better support food-based programming, venue rentals, and visitor experiences. 

Owned and operated by the Lower Grand River Land Trust, Ruthven Park welcomes more than 6,000 visitors each year for guided mansion tours, educational programs, hiking, birdwatching, weddings, and signature events including the Celtic Festival, For the Birds Festival, and High Tea experiences. 

Following the pandemic, Ruthven experienced growing demand for events centered around food service, as well as an increase in private rentals. However, the Coach House Servery kitchen lacked the space, equipment, and infrastructure needed to efficiently support these activities. 

Through the RBTCIP, Ruthven completed code related upgrades to the building's electrical, plumbing, and heating systems, enabling the installation of commercial refrigeration, dishwashing equipment, stainless steel workstations, improved storage, and a dedicated sink and food preparation area. The project received a grant of $14,504 from Haldimand County. 

The improvements have significantly increased the kitchen's functionality and efficiency, creating a safer, more organized workspace that supports current public health standards. The upgraded facility has allowed Ruthven to expand its event offerings, accommodate more guests, improve food service operations, and better support both public programming and private rentals. 

This project highlights how the Rural Business and Tourism Community Improvement Plan helps local organizations invest in infrastructure that supports tourism, strengthens visitor experiences, and contributes to Haldimand County's economy. Through programs such as the Building Restoration, Renovation and Improvement Grant, eligible businesses and organizations can access cost-share funding for projects including interior renovations, building expansions, code compliance upgrades, and the adaptive reuse of agricultural, commercial, and industrial buildings. The RBTCIP also offers incentives for façade improvements, redevelopment, heritage commercial properties, and other eligible projects that help strengthen Haldimand County's rural communities and tourism sectors. 

RBTCIP Program:  Development Charge, Planning Fees and Building Permit Grant, Building Restoration, Renovation and Improvement Gran 

Year: 2024 

RBTCIP Contribution (Grant): $14,504