Powell River getting infrastructure and jobs boost through B.C.’s Economic Recovery Plan, says MLA Simons

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POWELL RIVER – New Democrat MLA Nicholas Simons says that Powell River will be able to recover more quickly from the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic with help from close to $1.4 million in new funding for local infrastructure projects.

“We’ve all missed being able to share our beautiful part of the world with visitors over the past year, and these investments today will make sure we can put our best foot forward when it’s safe to welcome them back,” said Simons, MLA for Powell River-Sunshine Coast. “We are working hard to build a COVID-19 economic recovery that works for everyone. That means investing in things that people use and enjoy in areas like tourism and heritage infrastructure that are so critical to our economic future.”

In Powell River, funding is going to three projects, including:

– Powell River Film Society- preservation and restoration of the historic Patricia Theatre ($103,869)

– Phase 1 of the Powell River Airport Runway Expansion ($1,000,000)

– Powell River Educational Services Society- Powell Forest Canoe Route Revitalization Project ($306,778)

“The Patricia Theatre has hosted Powell Riverites and visitors since 1913 and needs upgrades to withstand the elements”, noted Simons. “As the only theatre in the City, and as the longest continuously running theatre in Canada, the Province’s investment in its upkeep is essential and welcome.”

Simons continued: “The Powell Forest Canoe Route, long an attraction for students, adventurers and back-country enthusiasts, is in need of upgrades.  This investment in the trails and improved signage will ensure that it continues to attract locals and visitors for years to come.”

This funding is coming through B.C.’s CERIP (Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure Program) which is providing $100 million in one-time infrastructure grants for impactful projects across B.C. These projects will improve community economic resilience, develop tourism infrastructure, support unique heritage infrastructure, and support economic recovery for rural communities.

CERIP’s funding is distributed through different provincial ministries, including Municipal Affairs; Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport; and Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operators and Rural Development.

This funding is part of BC’s $10 billion COVID-19 response to help support people, businesses, communities, and critical services, and build a strong economic recovery that works for everyone.

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