Nanaimo-North Cowichan MLA Doug Routley has announced new support for tourism infrastructure in North Cowichan and Ladysmith that will boost the local economy.
Total funding of $1,385,728 for North Cowichan and Ladysmith is part of a $19.4 million investment by the BC New Democrat government to support tourism-dependent communities. The funding is provided through one of three infrastructure investment programs for tourism, as part of the New Democrat government’s StrongerBC economic recovery plan.
A total of $100,000 is being allocated for lighting and improved layout for Waterwheel Park in Chemainus.
“Our communities rely on visitors and the travel restrictions due to the pandemic have been hard on people,” said Routley. “Making these investments in tourism infrastructure will create local jobs and provide new and more accessible facilities to ensure everyone can enjoy the beauty of our local parks when it is safe to do so.”
Other investments in the total of $684,176 coming to North Cowichan projects are: development of the Mount Tzouhalem access point including parking stalls, an accessible washroom and signage ($173,764); an accessible washroom at Kinsmen Park ($312,500) and upgrades at Mount Prevost mountain bike trails, including signage ($97,912).
Ladysmith is receiving a total of $701,552 that includes: a paved food truck pad and accessible walkway at waterfront park ($96,360); Community Park shelters ($170,000); an accessible washroom at Transfer Beach ($408,000) and amenities at Community Park including picnic tables, bike racks and a bike service station ($27,192).
Routley said he’s glad 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 were identified as being tourism-dependent based on a combination of criteria including: collection of the Municipality and Regional District Tax; municipalities with a population under 25,000 located outside of Metro Vancouver and the Capital Regional District; and having a higher percentage of accommodation sector wages compared to total employment wages.
