Anahim Lake Airport Terminal officials open

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

The Cariboo Regional District’s (CRD) new Anahim Lake Airport terminal was officially opened this morning. The terminal was built with support from the Government of British Columbia’s Towns for Tomorrow program, the Government of Canada’s Gas Tax Fund, the Northern Development Initiative Trust, the Cariboo Chilcotin Beetle Action Coalition and the CRD.

The terminal will be a valuable asset at the airport as it will serve the scheduled flight service, act as the airport office, and improve service levels for visitors, tourism operators, medical personnel, RCMP and other users. During emergency events, the terminal will provide office space and a lounge area for use by emergency personnel.

While the 900-square foot building was designed to be basic and functional, various energy efficiency upgrades were included in the construction to reduce long-term operating costs, as well as reduce the Regional District’s carbon footprint. Because the Anahim Lake area is served by diesel-generated electricity, the carbon emissions reduction from the efficiency upgrades is that much more significant. It is expected the upgrades will provide an 80 per cent reduction in fossil fuel consumption and associated carbon emissions over the building systems. By including the upgrades, the Regional District will be able to demonstrate the effectiveness of the construction techniques and materials in a rural and remote climate

Quick facts about the project:

* Funding for the project, whose total cost is close to $920,000, was provided by a variety of sources, including $400,000 from the Government of British Columbia’s Towns for Tomorrow program, $145,860 from the federal Gas Tax Fund for energy efficiency upgrades, $100,000 from the Northern Development Initiative Trust and $73,000 from Cariboo Chilcotin Beetle Action Coalition. The Cariboo Regional District contributed approximately $200,000 to this project.

· The Government of Canada provides $250,697,000 in annual funding for municipal infrastructure in British Columbia through the federal Gas Tax Fund.

· The Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) administers the Gas Tax Fund in BC, in collaboration with Canada and British Columbia.

Local MP Dick Harris said:

"“Our Government has made unprecedented investments in Canada’s infrastructure since 2006. We are proud to invest in important infrastructure projects, such as the improvements to the Anahim Airport, as we focus on creating jobs, promoting growth, and building strong, prosperous communities across Canada.”


Local MLA Donna Barnett also said:

"“It’s hard not to be impressed by the completion of this project. These airport improvements enhance important transportation services for businesses and residents, and the energy efficient design of the new terminal building tremendously contributes to a healthier environment. It’s a project that the B.C. Government is proud to support with a $400,000 grant through the Towns for Tomorrow program.”


Cariboo RD Chair Al Richmond stated:

"The Cariboo Chilcotin Beetle Action Coalition believes this project reflects the best of diversified wood and other products made right here in the Cariboo. This project supports one of CCBAC’s key objectives which is to help diversify the economies of the Cariboo and Chilcotin. Our region has led the way over the years in moving beyond dimension lumber and other traditional wood products, and has a solid reputation as a leader in the specialty and value-added wood products sector. CCBAC will continue to support projects that demonstrate innovation and diversification.”


Chad Mernett from the Cariboo-Chilcotin Beetle Action Coalition weighed in by saying:

“The Cariboo Chilcotin Beetle Action Coalition believes this project reflects the best of diversified wood and other products made right here in the Cariboo. This project supports one of CCBAC’s key objectives which is to help diversify the economies of the Cariboo and Chilcotin. Our region has led the way over the years in moving beyond dimension lumber and other traditional wood products, and has a solid reputation as a leader in the specialty and value-added wood products sector. CCBAC will continue to support projects that demonstrate innovation and diversification.”


Finally, Janine North - CEO of North Development finally stated:

"“The Anahim Lake Airport upgrades not only translate into real economic development in the west Chilcotin, but also the modern timber frame terminal building matches the character and style of the region. Northern Development is proud to support this project through an investment of $100,000.”