Northern British Columbia communities receive over $1.2 million to revitalize public spaces and enhance tourism experiences

News release

Image of people surrounding the Olde Time Trolley. Text reads: Northern British Columbia communities receive over $1.2M to revitalize public spaces and enhance tourism experiences

The Government of Canada is making investments in British Columbia to refresh community spaces, attract new visitors, and stimulate local economies

September 28, 2023 – Prince Rupert, British Columbia – PacifiCan

Safe and inclusive public spaces and dynamic tourism attractions are key to building vibrant communities. They bring together people of all ages and abilities, supporting businesses and boosting economic vitality.

Today, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced over $1.2 million in PacifiCan funding for eight projects in Northern British Columbia. This includes $296,250 for one project through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) and over $900,000 for seven projects through the Tourism Relief Fund (TRF). These projects are expected to create over 50 jobs in the Northern region of B.C.

Some of the investments announced today include:

  • $435,750 to launch vintage trolley tours in Prince Rupert; and
  • $296,250 to construct new washrooms at George Little Park in Terrace.

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

Other communities benefiting from improved public spaces and tourism experiences through today’s announcement include: Bella Coola, Dawson Creek, Lac La Hache, Quesnel and Williams Lake.  

Quotes

“From developing ski trails near Dawson Creek to expanding marine charter operations in Bella Bella, this investment demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to supporting the economic development of Northern British Columbia. Enhancing public spaces and tourism experiences in this region will not only bring people together, it will help businesses create jobs in their communities so they can thrive for years to come.”
- The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada

“PacifiCan made this unique tourism opportunity a reality. Our vintage trolleys have been a hit this year as we have entertained over 6,000 visitors to Prince Rupert!  All trolleys have wheelchair lifts, which make these tours fully accessible and a great way to introduce visitors to Prince Rupert where physical condition is not a barrier. Thank you, PacifiCan for understanding our vision and helping us bring it to fruition.”
- James Warburton, Owner of Olde Time Trolley Company

Quick facts

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

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

  • The CCRF provided $500 million over two years to Canada’s regional development agencies (RDAs) to invest in projects that build and improve community infrastructure, making public spaces safer, greener and more accessible.

  • The TRF provided $500 million over two years to help tourism businesses and organizations adapt their operations to meet public health requirements, while investing in products and services to facilitate future growth.

  • PacifiCan opened new offices in Kelowna, Cranbrook, Victoria, Campbell River, Prince George, Prince Rupert and Fort St. John in 2022. These offices serve businesses and communities, including Indigenous communities across the province. 

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Associated links

Contacts

Haley Hodgson
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada
haley.hodgson@international.gc.ca

Jillian Glover
Communications Manager
PacifiCan
jillian.glover@pacifican.gc.ca

Stay connected

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Toll-Free Number: 
1-888-338-9378
TTY (telecommunications device for the hearing impaired): 
1-877-303-3388

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