For over two years, boaters have enjoyed improved access to Gun Lake in the Bridge River Valley thanks to the efforts of the BRVCA Gun Lake Boat Launch Committee and funding from Northern Development. The installation of the new boat launch was necessitated by the previous launch’s state of disrepair, which created hazardous conditions for recreationalists trying to launch their boats.
“The Bridge River Valley has an abundance of natural attractions, and Gun Lake is one of the area’s most popular spots for water sports,” said David Charchesio, chair, BRVCA Gun Lake Boat Launch Committee. “To help protect the environment and ensure people have a positive recreational experience, it was crucial that we upgrade the boat launch concrete pad so people can launch and retrieve their watercrafts safely.”
To make the area safer for boaters and the surrounding environment, the BRVCA Gun Lake Boat Launch Committee successfully applied to Northern Development for a $13,107 grant and the Squamish Lillooet Regional District Area A for a $5,618 grant. Combined, these two grants covered the entire cost of the project – allowing residents and visitors to the area to enjoy a safe amenity without being burdened by increased taxes or other costs.
“Since the project’s completion, we’ve received many compliments, especially from locals,” said Charchesio. “These same people volunteered their labor in preparing the forms and rounding up supplies to help reduce the project cost and are grateful that the committee was able to successfully apply for grants, including the one we received from Northern Development, to allow for a new boat launch with no monetary cost to residents.”
Funding for the boat launch replacement came from the Trust’s former Community Halls and Recreation Facilities grant program. Through Northern Development’s new programs, boat launches are eligible for funding through the Recreation Infrastructure program.
