The British Columbia government is providing $550,000 to support five community projects in the Province’s Skeena region, Doug Donaldson, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development, announced today.

The funding is part of more than $10.1 million being awarded to 90 eligible local governments, First Nations and not-for-profit organizations under the BC Rural Dividend program.

The projects include the following:

• $210,000 is being awarded to FPInnovations to set up a program, in partnership with Skeena Sawmills, to develop the use of a CT scanner to screen logs for flaws before they enter the Terrace sawmill, leading to improved timber operations and lumber production.
• $40,000 is being awarded to the City of Terrace to develop a design and feasibility study for a pedestrian crossing over the CN Railways and Mainline sidings. The overpass would encourage pedestrian traffic and attract visitors to the downtown area.
• $100,000 is being awarded to the R.E.M. Lee Theatre Alive (1988) Society to provide upgrades to the R.E.M Lee Theatre in Terrace, including new sound, seating, carpets and lighting.
• $100,000 is being awarded to the District of Kitimat to fund Phase 1 of a design and construction plan to provide waterfront access to Minette Bay West Park. Project activities include a trail network and non-motorized boat launch that will benefit the community as well as visitors to the area.
• $100,000 is being awarded to the Kitselas Band Council, in partnership with Skeena Sawmills, for their Northwest BC Future Products and Supply Streams project that will develop a timber profile review for future forest products and identify steps to attract investors.

The Rural Dividend program provides grants of up to $100,000 each for single applicants, and up to $500,000 for partnerships to help rural communities stabilize their economies and create long-term local employment.

The program is under review, and the Province is determining how best to distribute the remaining Rural Dividend funds, taking into account the community impacts of this year's wildfire season and other exceptional circumstances.

Rural development activities support government’s commitment to building a strong, sustainable and innovative economy that creates well-paying jobs for all British Columbians.

Quote:

Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development Doug Donaldson –

“This new funding will help rural communities grow their economies and create jobs – now and for the next generation.”

Quick Facts:

• Projects were assessed and approved based on the following criteria:
  • Rural communities most in need.
  • Improved community resiliency and economic strength.
  • Partnership building and enhanced shared prosperity.
  • Project feasibility and sustainability.
  • Economic impact on rural communities.
  • Attracting and retaining youth.
  • Innovation in economic development.

Learn More:

Rural Dividend: www.gov.bc.ca/ruraldividend