As summer winds down across Niagara, thousands of seasonal workers are beginning to head back to school - but for Niagara Parks, the work doesn't stop when the summer crowds thin out.
Niagara Parks CEO David Adames says the organization peaks at around 2,000 employees during the summer, including roughly 800 students. About 350 employees work full-time year-round, while another 650 seasonal employees can work for much of the year.
Adames says Niagara Parks is also putting more focus on growing its off-season business, with attractions like the Niagara Parks Power Station and Niagara Takes Flight operating year-round.
That push toward year-round tourism is also creating more opportunities for employment.
Adames says Niagara Parks is planning for even more year-round experiences, including the upcoming Toronto Power Hotel project, which is expected to include a boutique hotel, spa, restaurants and a museum.
Adames says there's a misconception that Niagara Parks essentially shuts down once summer is over. In reality, attractions including Journey Behind the Falls, the Butterfly Conservatory, the Niagara Parks Power Station and Niagara Takes Flight remain open year-round, along with the WEGO bus system.
Some employees have been with Niagara Parks for decades, with Adames noting that some have worked there for nearly 50 years.
It's a sign that while summer may be winding down, Niagara Parks is continuing to grow its year-round footprint - and the jobs that come with it.
(Written by: Matt Latour)