Wells – Northern Development Initiative Trust has approved $30,000 in funding for the District of Wells to begin improvements on the Wells Community building. This project will include repairing old plumbing, modifying existing rooms, replacing end windows, and retrofitting existing lighting with energy efficient lighting. These upgrades could increase the value of the building, help attract new residents by making Wells a more attractive community, create a number of indirect full-time jobs, increase tourism, and ensure that residents continue to have access to education, daycare, arts and culture, and recreation. This grant was approved through Northern Development’s Community Halls and Recreation Facilities Program.
Fort St. James- Northern Development Initiative Trust has approved $10,000 in funding for the Stuart Lake Housing Co-Op to construct a housing complex with 30 individual units (24 two bedroom units and six one bedroom units). The project aims to meet the growing demand for affordable housing and to satisfy the needs of seniors, with units that are easy to maintain, affordable, and give seniors the option to continue living independently in Fort St. James. This grant was approved through Northern Development’s Capital Investment Analysis Program.
Wells – Northern Development has approved $30,000 in funding for the Wells Snowmobile Club to construct and install a new recreation bridge. The bridge will provide safe long-term access to the Gold Rush Trail to Barkerville and Wells and also provide safe crossing for all users across the Willow River. A significant percentage of winter tourism in Wells is based on their ability to attract snowmobilers to the community, with the proposed improvements, the trails will continue to offer Snowmobilers safe and accessible conditions. This grant was approved through Northern Development’s Community Halls and Recreation Facilities Program.
Wells – Northern Development has approved $30,000 in funding for the District of Wells to restore the former United Church, which is used as a performance facility, recording space and community space. The project proposes to place the building on a permanent foundation and install a new washroom. The Wells Community Arts Centre has been used as a musical performance venue and recording space because of its exceptional acoustics due to its historical function as a church. This grant was approved through Northern Development’s Community Halls and Recreation Facilities Program.
Williams Lake – Northern Development has approved $2,500 in funding for the Williams Lake Indian Band to develop a business plan to be able to present to investors, granting agencies, and banks to secure the funding required for the capital to re-develop the Chief William RV Campsite. The Williams Lake Indian Band has operated the Chief Will-Yum RV Campsite, now called the Chief William RV Campsite, for almost forty years continuously. With the proposed upgrades, the Campground will be able to expand operations and increase tourism to the area. This grant was approved through Northern Development’s Capital Investment Analysis Program.
Contact
Joel McKay
Director, Communications
Northern Development Initiative Trust
joel@northerndevelopment.bc.ca
Phone: 250-561-2525
