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Four regional tourism projects get $2.74 million in support
Four East Kootenay tourism projects are among 31 new infrastructure tourism projects in B.C. to receive significant funding from the Destination Development Fund.
The Destination Development Fund supports tourism businesses by developing and rejuvenating tourism infrastructure. The 31 new recipients will receive nearly $15 million in 2023-24 with one-time grants.
The funding includes eight projects in the Kootenay Rockies receiving $3,492,475, with four in the East Kootenay receiving $2.74 million.
The Columbia Valley Greenways Trail Alliance is getting $940,000 for work on the northern most segment (Radium Connector) of the Radium to Invermere Trail to further the vision of a 20km connector trail from Radium to Invermere.
Radium Village Arts & Culture Society is receiving $800,000 for the creation of Woodcarver Park for art displays and remembrance of Rolf Heer and his iconic home.
Fernie Trails Alliance Association is getting $650,000 for the development of a 30km adaptive, multi-use, multi-season, non-motorized trail connecting the community of Fernie to iconic sites.
And Kimberley Trails Society is receiving $350,000 to revitalize the Kimberley Bike Park (KBP) with the addition of a paved pump track and enhance the KBP park amenities.
“British Columbia is a world-class destination and tourism is one of the province’s greatest economic drivers,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “The past three years have been incredibly challenging for people in the tourism industry, especially after years of economic uncertainty and extreme weather events like the recent wildfires. Investing in tourism infrastructure supports the tourism sector, the people who work in it, and is helping to create vibrant communities for all British Columbians and visitors.”
Projects were chosen for their contribution to communities, benefits to the tourism economy, and support for sustainability and accessibility.
Since 2021, more than $60 million has been provided through the Destination Development Fund helping rebuild tourism revenues to 2019 levels and strengthening a year-round visitor economy for people in B.C and for those who work in the tourism sector.
Lead image: A drawing of the proposed Woodcarver Park in Radium Hot Springs.
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