Central and North Vancouver Island communities are getting a boost from the federal government to improve tourism and public spaces.
Public space projects are getting funding through $4.3 million from the Canada Community Revitalization Fund. Over $400,000 will go towards five tourism projects on the island.
The Regional District of Nanaimo is getting $500,000 to improve Jack Bagley Community Park in Nanoose Bay. They say they will develop new pickleball and tennis courts, a new event space and picnic shelter, and several accessibility enhancements.
The district says it will support community engagement and boost tourism in the area.
More funding of over $500,000 will be coming to the Stz’uminas First Nation to revitalize downtown Oyster Bay, and nearly $500,000 will be given to Lantzville for main street upgrades.
Further up Vancouver Island, the Town of Comox will receive $380,000 to rebuild and construct a new marine services building in the Comox Marina.
The Denman Island Community Education Society will also get over $93,000 to create an outdoor multi-use community space.
The Cape Mudge Indian Band in Campbell River will receive $750,000 to install lighting at the We Wai Kai sports field.
Port Alice will get $97,500 to repair and build new pedestrian walkways in the town.
Coastal Rainforest Safaris Incorporated will get just under $100,000 to get a new boat and expand their tour capacity in Port Hardy.
Minister of International Development and minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency Harjit S. Sajjan says the funds will help communities recover from the pandemic.
“These investments demonstrate the Government of Canada’s commitment to supporting economic development in communities across British Columbia. We have helped put small- and medium-sized businesses on the road to recovery,” said Sajjan.
“Now it’s time to invest in the shared public spaces and tourism experiences that will bring people together and help communities in our province grow and thrive well into the future.”
More information about projects on Vancouver Island can be found on the Pacific Economic Development website.
