Build the Multiplex at Innova Park

Sat Jan 16 2010
In your recent online survey asking where a new multiplex facility should be built, I feel the perfect location has been overlooked.
The marina is a very poor location due to limited entrance and egress. At present, one would need to weave through the park to use the Howe Street overpass, or be at the mercy of the traffic light at Pearl Street, or perhaps have to wait for a train to pass before leaving the park is possible.
Neither the marina or Tournament Centre locations are centrally located, nor is the Fort William Gardens which has limited parking.
While it would be nice to look at the Nor'Westers or Lake Superior (which is frozen in winter), you do go inside the facility, not sit outside looking at the scenery.
The best location in my opinion would be at Innova Business Park. Consider that the city owns the land, it is centrally located, close to LU and the hospital, and would have excellent entrance and exit.
Exiting onto Golf Links Road, one could go east or west on the Harbour Expressway turning north or south onto the Thunder Bay Expressway. Land there has been sold with the intent of building a shopping complex. A multipurpose facility with twin surfaces for trade show floor space, adjoining a hotel/convention complex at Innova Park would be an excellent addition to Thunder Bay. The hotel/convention centre could bring money to our city and people with money to invest here as well.
Such a facility could also attract private investment, either fully or partially, perhaps in conjunction with a major hotel chain. Close access to the airport and highways are important for such a complex and I believe the Innova Park location would have the best chance to attract such a chain.