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 million in PacifiCan funding for nine projects throughout the East Kootenay.

This includes almost $1.5 million for five projects funded through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund and over $550,000 for five projects funded through the Tourism Relief Fund.

The District of Sparwood is receiving $485,000 in funding through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund to revitalize Centennial Plaza in the downtown by creating an accessible park environment with added seating and event space. The upgraded plaza will facilitate community gatherings of all sizes, encourage economic development, and be available for use year-round.

“The District of Sparwood would like to thank the federal government for this valuable grant that will go towards beautifying Centennial Plaza. Being able to provide a gathering place for activities and festivals during all seasons is tremendous.  This is another great example of levels of government working together for the betterment of communities across Canada,” stated Mayor David Wilks.

Other projects benefitting from the Canada Community Revitalization Fund

City of Fernie – $468,750. Funding will be used to upgrade and increase parking areas adjacent to the downtown core. New parking layouts will improve efficiency and capacity, and promote a more active visitor experience in downtown Fernie.

District of Elkford – $204,000. Funding will help revitalize the District of Elkford’s downtown core by constructing new pathways, installing waste bins and park furniture, and improving landscaping.

Kimberley Disabled Skier’s Association – $64,225. Funding will go towards replacing the safety system at the Kimberley Para-Alpine Training Centre to better protect athletes.

Wildsight Elk Valley Branch – $252,000. Funding will be used to construct a Hydroponic Container Farm, which will allow produce to be grown year-round at the Fernie Community EcoGarden.

Projects benefitting from the Tourism Relief Fund

Canadian Rockies River Expeditions Ltd. – $99,999. Funding will go towards developing new cultural and agri-tourism offerings to complement the company’s existing rafting operations. Project activities include creating nature-based education and outdoor activities and building glamping-style accommodations in Kimberley.

Cranbrook and Region Tourism Society – $100,000. Funding will go towards a capacity study that will assess the current inventory of tourism assets and facilities, consult stakeholders, and lead to an action plan to optimize Cranbrook’s tourism industry.

Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association – $231,500. Funding will be used to create a touring route for visitors along the Highway 3 corridor by establishing sites of interest, landmarks, and other historic and cultural markers.

Valley Zipline Adventures Ltd. – $99,999. Funding will be used to expand the outdoor playground and develop an adventure obstacle course at the Radium Hot Springs location.

“These investments demonstrate how the Government of Canada is helping to boost economic development in communities across British Columbia. We are here to support small- and medium-sized businesses on the road to recovery. Investing in shared public spaces and tourism experiences will bring communities together and ensure that the Thompson Okanagan region thrives well into the future,” said Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada.

Today’s funding announcement builds on the recent openings of PacifiCan offices in Kelowna and Cranbrook that will help support local economic development for British Columbians in the Southern Interior.

With new officers living and providing service in the Southern Interior, PacifiCan will be more accessible to all communities in the region.

PacifiCan is the federal economic development agency dedicated to British Columbians. It works with partners who are building innovative businesses, creating quality jobs, and supporting inclusive growth throughout British Columbia.

PacifiCan opened new offices in Kelowna and Cranbrook, B.C. on November 16, to better serve businesses and communities across the Southern Interior of B.C.

The Canada Community Revitalization Fund and Tourism Relief Fund programs launched in the summer of 2021.

The Canada Community Revitalization Fund provides $500 million over two years to help communities build and improve infrastructure, making public spaces safer, greener and more accessible.

The Canada Community Revitalization Fund supports two major streams of activity: adapt community spaces and assets so that they may be used safely in accordance with local public-health guidelines, and build or improve community spaces to encourage Canadians to re-engage in and explore their communities and regions.

The Tourism Relief Fund provides $500 million over two years to help tourism businesses and organizations with adapting their operations to meet public health requirements, while investing in products and services to facilitate future growth.

Lead image: Sparwood’s Centennial Plaza (pre upgrade work). e-KNOW file photo

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