The Government of Canada is making investments across British Columbia to refresh community spaces, attract new visitors, and stimulate local economies
December 7, 2022 - Penticton, British Columbia - PacifiCan
Safe and inclusive public spaces and dynamic tourism attractions are key to vibrant communities. They bring together people of all ages and abilities, in turn supporting businesses and boosting economic vitality. Throughout the Thompson Okanagan and across British Columbia's Southern Interior, communities are ready to welcome residents and visitors alike to enjoy new and improved public spaces and tourism experiences.
Today, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced over $5.5 million in PacifiCan funding for 23 projects throughout the Thompson Okanagan. This includes $3.2 million for nine projects funded through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund and over $2.3 million for 14 projects funded through the Tourism Relief Fund.
The City of Penticton is receiving $950,000 in funding through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund for two projects that will improve public infrastructure in the community. The first project will receive $750,000 for the development of a new lake-to-lake bike route between Okanagan Lake and Skaha Lake that will provide cyclists with safe, easy access across the city. The additional $200,000 will be used to construct two accessible community washrooms at Penticton's Kiwanis Park Safety Village and Riverside Park.
Upgrading existing infrastructure and building new public assets will mean British Columbians will have better access to recreational programs and facilities; these projects will grow
- economic opportunities, create jobs, and improve community wellness. Communities
- benefiting from today's announcements include Kelowna, Penticton, Peachland, Golden, Revelstoke, Vernon, Summerland, Keremeos and Osoyoos.
For the full list of projects, please see backgrounder section below.
Today's funding announcement builds on the recent openings of PacifiCan offices in Kelowna and Cranbrook that will help support local economic development for British Columbians in the Southern Interior. With new officers living and providing service in the Southern Interior, PacifiCan will be more accessible to all communities in the region.
