Over the years the Chamber has played an important role in shaping the local economy. One of the major accomplishments the Chamber was involved in was the lobbying for the construction of the Canso Causeway. Another significant successful effort was in the restoration of the Fortress of Louisbourg in 1961. Over the years the Chamber was also responsible for the formation of the Cape Breton Tourist Association in 1958. Some opponents considered it mythical thinking but the Chamber pressed for the erection of electrical generating stations at pit-head. The Chamber also lobbied and succeeded in getting a Central Mortgage and Housing Office and Department of Highways License office located in Sydney.