December 2024 - Newsletter

Since 2018, Northern Development has invested $674,886 to support the Caledonia Nordic Ski Club (CNSC) in Prince George, B.C., creating one of Canada’s most advanced Nordic snowmaking systems. Funding has been provided in phases through the Economic Diversification Infrastructure grant ($250,000 in 2018 and $125,000 in 2020) and the Recreation Infrastructure grant ($299,886 in 2021).

The phased approach to snowmaking upgrades began with the stadium area and expanded to include portions of the ski and biathlon competition courses, cross-country ski trails, and the Rotary Nordic Terrain Park. The latest phase adds an additional eight kilometers of coverage, ensuring early, predictable, and sustainable snow. This system allows CNSC to open earlier, extend its season, increase program offerings, attract members, employ more staff, and host international competitions that require guaranteed snow.

The project includes installing 1,300 meters of water lines, extending the electrical system with, adding 14 hydrants for snow guns, and acquiring six advanced TechnoAlpin TR8 Fan Style snow guns. These upgrades triple the club’s snow production capacity.

CNSC is one of Canada’s largest Nordic ski clubs, with over 1,660 members. Its Otway facility is a cornerstone for community recreation and a premier venue for cross-country skiing and biathlon championships, including the 2019 World Para Nordic Skiing Championships. The snowmaking system has been essential in securing and hosting major events, such as the 2024 Para Biathlon World Championships and World Cup Finals, contributing significant economic benefits.

“We’ve been fortunate to partner with Northern Development to build this world-class snowmaking system,” said Kevin Pettersen, Past President of CNSC. “This system has not only brought global attention to Prince George but also provided the critical infrastructure for a longer ski season and substantial economic returns. It’s an incredible legacy for our community and club.”

In the winter of 2022, the Prince George Backcountry Recreation Society completed renovations to the Red Mountain Backcountry Cabin thanks in part to a $71,330 Recreation Infrastructure grant.

The cabin is located 12.5 kilometers into the McGregor Ranges of the Rocky Mountains near Penny, B.C. The facility is used throughout the year by hikers, runners, mountain bikers, snowshoers and most frequently by backcountry skiers. It is one of the only backcountry cabins in Canada where users can access the trail head by road or by train.

Although the interior of the cabin is in good working condition, the foundation required repair. This project allowed for the cabin to be raised so the rotting bottom logs could be removed, and the cabin set back down onto a new foundation.

Additional renovations included: updates to the interior, a new solar panel system and chimney pipe, and a new outhouse. Funding also helped with the construction of a new woodshed and helicopter pad.

The cabin was originally built in the mid 1950’s and underwent an important renovation in the early 2000s, making it usable by the public.

The cabin is very busy throughout the year and is generally fully booked for overnight stays for most months. Revenues from cabin rentals have increased over the past few years, owing to the growing popularity of the facility.

The Fraser Canyon Tourism Signage Project is taking a major step forward with the development and installation of a branded gateway sign on Highway 1 in the Village of Lytton. Northern Development provided $20,000 to the Lytton and District Chamber of Commerce for the project through a Marketing Initiatives grant.

Officially unveiled in August of 2024, the gateway sign marks the north entrance to the Fraser Canyon. This initiative celebrates the region’s history, cultural diversity, and natural beauty while offering visitors an invitation to explore its many attractions.

Tourism in the Fraser Canyon has seen a steady decline in recent decades, with highway traffic dropping from 8,300 vehicles per day in 1984 to just 2,900 vehicles per day. This has led to business closures and economic challenges for local communities. In response, partners, First Nations, and local governments have created a comprehensive Tourism Master Plan aimed at revitalizing the region.

The installation of the Lytton gateway sign is a critical step in this plan. Not only will it enhance the visitor experience by establishing a distinct entry point to the Fraser Canyon, but it will also support broader marketing efforts to attract more visitors and encourage longer stays.

By highlighting the Canyon’s historical, cultural, and recreational treasures, this project has the potential to transform the Fraser Canyon into a thriving destination. The gateway sign symbolizes a united commitment to preserving the Canyon’s legacy while fostering sustainable tourism growth for the benefit of its communities and businesses.

The Vanderhoof Airport upgraded to LED lighting on runways, taxiways and aprons after the District of Vanderhoof successfully applied for and received a $58,409 Economic Infrastructure grant.

Completed in October of 2023, these improvements increase airport safety, provide economic benefits and ensure the viability and sustainability of medevac and in emergency situations, such as wildfires, it serves as a vital base for the region. The switch to LED lighting reduces maintenance costs, reduces electrical use and contributes to the reduction of the carbon footprint in the municipal facility.

The Vanderhoof Airport is an integral part of the transportation infrastructure of the District of Vanderhoof, enabling the provision of important services to its residents. These services include life-saving medevac flights, access for firefighting aircraft, search and rescue missions and local transport for bringing business and commerce into the community, charter services, recreational flying, flight school training and a venue for the biannual International Air Show.