PRINCE RUPERT – New Democrat MLA Jennifer Rice says people in Haida Gwaii will benefit from $2,156,000 in new provincial funding for local infrastructure and service improvements. The funding is part of a $75 million investment in communities across northern B.C.

“This funding from the province will be an helpful boost to the local economy of Haida Gwaii, while bringing improved infrastructure and services for residents,” said Rice, MLA for North Coast. “These investments are a great example of how the Province is working together with local governments to meet the needs of our local communities.”

MLA Rice said the $75 million in funding is being provided through two streams: the 2020 Northern Capital and Planning Grant, and the B.C. Northern Healthy Communities Fund. The funding will help address communities’ infrastructure needs as they prepare for major resource and economic development, and support the local delivery of critical services, such as health and mental health care, housing and child care.

While local governments, First Nations and non-profits in the region can apply for the B.C. Northern Healthy Communities Fund through the Northern Development Initiative Trust, the Northern Capital and Planning Grant will be distributed based on population. Local governments receiving the Northern Capital and Planning Grant include:

Village of Masset- $669,000

Village of Port Clements- $338,000

Village of Queen Charlotte- $710,000

North Coast Regional District- $439,000

The $75 million provincial investment is in addition to the $100 million provided through the Northern Capital and Planning Grant to communities in the northwest in 2019. It is part of ongoing dialogue between the Province and B.C.’s northwest and north-central communities on how to support the region over the longer term.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/22177