The British Columbia (Canada) government has announced a CA$50-million investment in tourism infrastructure, with CA$7.9 million allocated for 19 projects in the Thompson Okanagan region. This funding aims to build the province as a world-class tourism destination, catering to both residents and visitors.
Premier David Eby stated, “If you live in B.C., you have a couple special places you love to visit with family and friends. For my family, Science World is one of those spots.” He added, “If you’re visiting B.C., you know how much there is to see – but all this doesn’t happen by accident. That’s why we’re building a strong tourism sector where visitors can experience all our province has to offer and British Columbians can enjoy their favourite places as well as the benefits of a strong, diverse economy.”
The Province is investing CA$20 million in Science World to support priority infrastructure repairs and improvements to its dome and other parts of the building. Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, Lana Popham, noted, “The past three years have been incredibly difficult for people in the tourism industry. Our government is proud to invest in the tourism sector to support the people who work in it and to support its sustained recovery.
In addition to the Thompson Okanagan projects, the Province is providing CA$30 million to enhance existing tourism infrastructure throughout the province. The goal is to foster globally competitive destinations, strengthen a year-round visitor economy, and support sustainability, accessibility, and inclusion.
Projects will include new tourism attractions, campground developments, incorporating Indigenous culture and language, accessibility improvements, and climate change adaptations. This new funding builds on the CA$15 million previously allocated for 2023 and helps create more vibrant communities for residents and visitors.
The CA$45-million tourism infrastructure fund supports 90 shovel-ready, tourism-development projects throughout the province, bolstering the region’s appeal to travelers and providing a wide range of experiences for different interests.
The outdoor recreation industry in British Columbia has long been an important part of the province’s economy and cultural landscape. These investments in tourism infrastructure contribute to the growth and stability of this industry, providing new opportunities for businesses and communities reliant on outdoor recreation for income and employment.
As the province invests in these projects, it is crucial to maintain a balance between economic development and the preservation of natural resources. This will ensure that British Columbia’s outdoor recreation industry remains sustainable, offering both residents and visitors a diverse range of experiences for years to come.