Cariboo-Chilcotin Organizations receive Federal Project Funding of just under $297,000

Courtesy of PacifiCan:

Safe and inclusive public spaces and dynamic tourism attractions are key to vibrant communities. They bring together people of all ages and abilities, in turn supporting businesses and boosting economic vitality. Throughout Northern British Columbia, communities are ready to welcome residents and visitors alike to enjoy new and improved public spaces and tourism experiences.

Today, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced over $2.4 million in PacifiCan funding for ten projects across Northern B.C. This includes over $1.1 million for three projects funded through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund and almost $1.3 million for seven projects funded through the Tourism Relief Fund.

Skidegate Band Council is receiving $513,443 to revitalize Skidegate Waterfront Park playground by replacing aging structures with a new multi-age play facility. The project will include redesigning the park and installing new equipment to improve accessibility and encourage recreational activities in the community.

Upgrading existing infrastructure and building new public assets will mean British Columbians have better access to recreational programs and facilities. These projects will grow economic opportunities, create jobs, and improve community wellness. Communities benefiting from today’s announcement include: Terrace, Quesnel, Kitimat, Haida Gwaii, Mackenzie, Lone Butte, Tlell, Barkerville and 108 Mile Ranch.

For the full list of projects, please see backgrounder section here.

This funding announcement builds on the recent opening of PacifiCan offices in Prince George, Prince Rupert and Fort St. John to help support economic development for British Columbians in the North. With new officers living and providing service in Northern B.C., PacifiCan will be more accessible to all communities in the region. 

The Hon. Harjit Sajjan, Federal Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada said:

“These investments demonstrate how the Government of Canada is helping to boost economic development in communities across British Columbia. Investing in shared public spaces and tourism experiences will bring communities together and ensure that Northern B.C. thrives well into the future.”

Breakdown of Federal Funding for Cariboo-Chilcotin Organizations:

* Quesnel Curling Club -$134,800 

* 108 Golf Resort - $99,999 

* The Barkerville Heritage Trust - $62,000

* Wettstone Guest Ranch (Lone Butte) - $99,999

City of Quesnel receives Federal Dollars to upgrade their Riverfront Trail Network

Courtesy of the Government of Canada:

Shared public spaces are the heart of communities across Canada. They bring together people of all ages and abilities, supporting businesses and stimulating local economies. In Quesnel, like so many places across Canada, the community is ready to welcome back residents and visitors alike to vibrant parks, trails and public spaces. 

The Government of Canada recognizes that many well-loved spaces have laid dormant while Canadians have taken precautions to stay safe. Upgrading existing community infrastructure and building new public assets will help Canadian cities and towns provide better access to recreational programs and facilities while boosting their economic vitality. 

 Today, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced an investment of $118,325 through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) for the City of Quesnel. This funding will allow the City of Quesnel to upgrade wayfinding signage along the Riverfront Trail. The project includes refreshing existing information kiosks, designing and installing additional ones, and creating new signage. 

 The CCRF was launched in June 2021. It is providing $500 million over two years for Canada’s regional development agencies (RDAs) to invest in projects that build and improve community infrastructure. The Government of Canada is committed to rejuvenating public spaces to make them safer, greener, and more accessible. This will stimulate local economies, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for Canadians. 

The Hon. Harjit Sajjan (Federal Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada) stated: 

 “This initiative demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to supporting economic development in communities in every corner of British Columbia. We have helped put small-and medium-sized businesses on the road to recovery. Now it’s time to invest in the shared public spaces that will safely bring people together and help communities grow and thrive well into the future.”

While Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson commented:

"The City of Quesnel is thrilled to implement this stage of our wayfinding strategy. The Riverfront Trail serves as the hub of our community trail network, and a well-marked system supports residents and visitors to navigate and explore the community while getting some fresh air and exercise.”