A new interactive website is allowing residents of northwest B.C. to gain greater insight into all infrastructure projects across the region.
On June 24, the Northwest BC Resource Benefits Alliance (RBA) launched an interactive map to provide clear and accessible information about the many new projects that are planned, underway or complete, which are being funded by the 2024 Northwest BC Regional Funding Agreement.
Prince Rupert spent almost $8.2 million, which included just under $1.7 million of RBA funding, for six new projects, with four now complete and two still ongoing.
The website also provides key information, images and statistics on the 53 infrastructure projects within the RBA member governments that have received funds through the Province's $250 million investment from last year.
The funds will go toward upgrades and expansion of critical infrastructure, including roads, transit, public safety facilities, modern water and wastewater systems, and more vital services for sustaining and building livable communities.
"With this landmark investment, the RBA local governments are empowered to shape the region’s future by driving economic growth, creating well-paying jobs, and building vibrant communities that will thrive for generations to come," the RBA stated.
"Another key component of this work includes strengthening relationships with neighbouring First Nations via projects that support reconciliation and shared prosperity."
Prince Rupert Mayor Herb Pond added the commitment to Northwest BC First Nations is integrated into his city's long-term development plans to ensure that industrial growth benefits all communities.
“Moving forward, our collective focus is on developing sustainable, forward-looking infrastructure that meets today’s needs and anticipates tomorrow’s challenges, keeping our communities safe, connected, and prosperous," he said.
The Submarine and Overland Water Line and Communications Upgrades project cost $7 million, with a total of $1.19 million in RBA funding, and includes construction for a new submarine line across from Fern Passage. The line is one of two submarine lines that feed Prince Rupert all of its treated water, making its replacement crucial to the security of the city's water system. The project is the city's most expensive RBA project and is ongoing.
The other ongoing project is the Street Replacement Program, which costs $54,507. The project was fully-funded by the RBA, and the funds are being used to increase Prince Rupert's roads budget.
Completed projects include the Priority Bus Shelter Replacement, which cost $250,000, with $30,000 coming from RBA funding. The project replaced or installed three bus shelters adjacent to the high school, hospital and a high-density affordable housing complex—locations that were identified as high needs and high traffic in the City's adopted Transportation Plan.
The Replacing the Roof on Lester Centre project received $249,669 in RBA funding toward the $700,000 total cost. The project is fully complete as it replaced the remaining original roofs of the City's primary theatre and stage, which sees hundreds of performances and events annually.
The Command 2 Vehicle Replacement project was fully-funded by the RBA and cost $103,075. The City's Command 2 vehicle, which is equipped with an emergency lighting and siren package, was up for renewal as command vehicles are replaced at eight-year intervals. The replacement has been completed.
The McBride Street Sport Court Resurfacing project is also complete, with a cost of $65,000, which was fully funded by the RBA as well. The project resurfaced the sports courts, which serve as the community's central outdoor racquet courts for tennis and pickleball.
"As many long-overdue infrastructure projects now get underway, the RBA is continuing to work in close partnership with the Province as proud collaborators in the economic development of our region," the RBA stated. "Our goal is to ensure that the communities supporting B.C.’s industrial development receive equitable, long-term funding from these developments in order to meet the region’s infrastructure and service needs."
The RBA was formed in 2014 and consists of 21 local governments, including three regional districts and their 18 member municipalities. For more information or to view the interactive map, visit nwresourcebenefits.ca.
