NDP MLA Nicholas Simons says new support for tourism infrastructure along the Sunshine Coast will boost local economies and provide good-paying jobs

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POWELL RIVER – New Democrat MLA Nicholas Simons for is welcoming $2.4 million in funding that will develop tourism infrastructure, attract visitors, and provide good-paying jobs in Gibsons, Powell River and Sechelt.

“So many people up and down the Sunshine Coast rely on tourism and related businesses to support themselves and their families.” said MLA Simons. “The COVID-19 pandemic has been particularly hard on our communities because of this. These investments will help make our region even more attractive to potential visitors as soon as we’re able to welcome them again, and keep our industry strong for years to come.”

Projects include:

  • Upgrades to active transportation including signage, parking, and bike racks in Gibsons
  • Upgrades to the Willingdon Beach Campsite washrooms and showers and an Alberni Rd. multi-use pathway to Willingdon Beach in Powell River
  • Improvements to Hackett Park, an information kiosk and sani-dump near downtown, and Trail Bay Sea Walk improvements in Sechelt

This funding for Sunshine Coast communities is part of a $19.4 million investment recently announced by the BC New Democrat government to support tourism dependent communities. MLA Simons said he is glad that people in the riding will benefit from this funding, as it will not only support people working in tourism but also help grow the local economy into the future.

Communities have been identified as being tourism dependent based on a combination of criteria including: collection of the Municipality and Regional District Tax; municipalities with a populations under 25,000 that are located outside of Metro Vancouver and the Capital Regional District; and have a higher percentage of accommodation sector wages in comparison to total employment wages.

This funding is being provided by one of three infrastructure investment programs for tourism, as part of the province’s StrongerBC economic recovery plan.

Learn More:

For more information about the BC New Democrat government’s support for tourism dependent communities visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2021TACS0022-000560