NDP MLAs say new support for tourism project in Richmond will attract visitors and boost local economies

RICHMOND  New Democrat MLAs Henry Yao, Kelly Greene, and Aman Singh say new support from the BC NDP government for tourism project in Richmond will attract visitors, boost local economies, and help communities recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The new sport and event plaza at the Richmond Olympic Oval will be an exciting addition to the Richmond community,” said Henry Yao, MLA for Richmond South Centre. “Creating more spaces for people to gather and stay active is one way we can support the growth of our vibrant community.”

Richmond will be receiving $1,000,000 for the construction of a sport and event plaza on the south side of the Richmond Olympic Oval. This funding for the sport and event plaza at the Richmond Olympic Oval is part of a $21.3 million investment from the BC New Democrat government for shovel-ready destination development projects. People in Richmond 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.

“During these challenging times, getting outside in the community is important for people’s wellbeing,” said Kelly Greene, MLA for Richmond-Steveston. “As we build back better, I know that Richmond is eager to welcome people from near and far to explore our vibrant community.”

The destination development funding invests in implementation-ready tourism infrastructure and amenities projects that support the recovery and resilience of tourism by creating jobs and developing infrastructure that will attract visitors to B.C. communities in the near and long term.  Projects were chosen for their demonstrated tourism benefits to communities and British Columbians, along with new jobs, many of which will provide employment for apprentices, youth, new Canadians, women, and First Nations.

“It’s important for a community like ours to have public spaces that welcome everyone,” said Aman Singh, MLA for Richmond-Queensborough. “The new sport and event plaza at the Richmond Olympic Oval will provide an additional place for people to connect and gather.”

Since the beginning of the pandemic, the New Democrat government has worked closely with B.C.’s tourism sector and provided $228 million in support to ensure businesses and non-profits can continue to draw visitors and benefit local communities for years to come.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2022TACS0003-000124

For more information on destination development funding and a list of projects, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/CERIP_Table_2.pdf