Local government in the Thompson-Nicola area is receiving federal-provincial investments in critical clean water and wastewater infrastructure, announced Todd Stone, MLA for Kamloops-South Thompson; Terry Lake, MLA for Kamloops-North Thompson; and Jackie Tegart, MLA for Fraser-Nicola; on behalf of Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Peter Fassbender.

Construction of new passing lanes along Highway 5 between Barriere and Little Fort, near Darfield, is anticipated to begin this spring.

Building on the economic benefits and jobs created by getting to yes on major projects and provincial investments in infrastructure, MLA for Kamloops-South Thompson Todd Stone and MLA for Kamloops-North Thompson Terry Lake announced immediate investments outlined in B.C.’s rural economic development strategy that will create jobs and economic opportunities in the Kamloops region.

A major bridge rehabilitation project on the Coquihalla Highway will begin this spring, extending the life of this steel-arch bridge, as well as increasing safety along this important corridor.

Under the BC Rural Dividend, the Province is providing $9,971 in a new project development grant to the Simpcw First Nation.

Ground was officially broken to mark the start of construction for the new $30-million Industrial Training and Technology Centre at Thompson Rivers University (TRU).

More than 200 Aboriginal learners in the Thompson-Okanagan region are receiving training in their communities through programs that provide students with employment readiness, heavy equipment operator and small business development skills.

A major resurfacing project east of Kamloops will begin this spring, as the ministry starts to tender the first projects of the coming construction season.

Over two kilometres of Highway 5 are now widened to include a passing lane and a commercial vehicle safety enforcement (CVSE) pullout has been built, easing congestion and bringing safer conditions along this route.