The B.C. government, in partnership with the District of Mission, has completed surface improvements to Florence Lake Road in support of growing recreational tourism in the Mission Interpretive Forest.

The first 8.4 kilometres of the road have received grading and fresh gravel to provide a smoother, safer driving surface for those looking for recreational opportunities in the area. The Province and the District of Mission have partnered on this project with a value of approximately $400,000. These improvements build on the previous federal-provincial investment of $1.2 million and were identified as a key priority to growing the local economy during a community discussion at the North Fraser Regional Economic Development Pilot.

The Mission Interpretive Forest is located in the Stave Lake area of the Fraser Valley and includes 5,000 hectares in the western portion of Mission's Community Forest. The Florence Lake Road provides public access to the area where the district is looking to develop additional recreation sites and amenities, and demonstrate that working forests can also offer recreational opportunities.

Quotes:

Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour Pat Bell -

"The Regional Economic Investments Pilots were designed to identify local priorities that are important to building the community and creating opportunities for job creation."

Maple Ridge - Mission MLA Marc Dalton -

"This section of road is of particular importance because it leads right to Zajac Ranch - a camp for kids with disabilities. These improvements will not only make it safer for travel but will open the area up to further investment opportunities."

District of Mission Mayor Ted Adlem -

"We're thankful to the Province for working with our community on priorities that will provide opportunities for growth and benefit Mission and the North Fraser region."

Contact:

Media Relations
Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training
250 356-8177