New Gold Rainy River mine prepares for 2017 startup

Superior Morning7:26Jeff's Road Trip - New Gold Tour

There's a feeling of optimism when it comes to the future in the Fort Frances area. Jeff Walters has a tour of the New Gold mine site.

The excitement continues to build in the Rainy River District as the opening date for the New Gold mine draws closer.

About 500 contractors are at the mine site, getting buildings ready for a startup in 2017.

New Gold Rainy River's general manager told CBC News there are many unique features at this gold mine including the fact it has neighbours.

"It's very rare, and it's something we actually value a lot," Grant Goddard said.

"We have tremendous community support and, at the same time, we want to make sure people are continuously aware of what's happening, how it's sort of evolving."

The goal is to hire as many local employees as possible. More than 30 per cent of its current workforce of 180 is made up of Aboriginal workers, he said.

All of the hype around the mine has affected nearby businesses, according to Emo Inn operator Aaron Bisson.

"Restaurant, lounge, bar I mean the impact there is pretty significant. And, on the room [rental] side, we've seen more there as well," he said.

With New Gold Rainy River's expected 20-year mine life, Bisson said that's good news for his hotel, and the entire region.

"It's been an economic boom to everybody, which has impacted the number of customers we see coming through the door."

The mine is supposed to start production in 2017. At that point, Goddard said the operation will have about 450 employees. Once the underground project is launched, the number of workers is expected to swell to 600 many of whom will have to buy or rent homes in the area.