Today, the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced federal funding for five projects in the Skeena-Bulkley Valley Region under the Harper Government’s Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF).
"Our Government, through the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund, is continuing to support the Skeena-Bulkley Valley Region and communities like it across Canada,
" said Minister Yelich. "The projects announced today will help create jobs, growth and long-term prosperity.
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Federal funding of more than $242,000 is being provided through the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF). The projects include upgrades to the Hankin-Evelyn backcountry ski society, renovations to the Kermode Friendship Centre in Terrace, expansion of the community trail in the Village of Granisle, upgrades to the Moricetown Sports Fields, and conversion of the Burns Lake Band high school into a multi-purpose facility.
"The Bulkley Backcountry Ski Society would like to thank Minister Yelich and the Government of Canada for supporting the Hankin-Evelyn Backcountry Recreation area,
" said Leanne Helkenberg, Chair, Bulkley Backcountry Ski Society. "These funds will be used for road, trail and cabin maintenance to help keep the Hankin-Evelyn Backcountry Recreation area accessible to locals and tourists from around the world. This project has helped to increase the economic potential of backcountry recreation in the region by providing easy access, and heightened awareness of the world class outdoor pursuits that the Bulkley Valley has to offer.
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CIIF supports, on a cost-shared basis, repairs and improvements to existing community infrastructure accessible to the public. Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) is delivering the Fund in Western Canada with an allocation of $46.2 million over two years.
Since 2006, the Harper Government, through WD, has invested in job-creating small and medium-sized businesses, aerospace, marine and defence industries, and supported innovative entrepreneurs in pursuing emerging markets. By continuing to promote new economic opportunities, WD is helping to create jobs, economic growth, and long-term prosperity.
