The provincial government says it will invest $21.3 million into over 50 new tourism infrastructure projects, including an upgrade to the Snaw-Naw-As Campground.
“Our investment in tourism creates good-paying jobs that directly support local economies now and will elevate our reputation as a world-class destination for the many visitors looking to return to B.C. for years to come,” said Melanie Mark, minister of tourism, arts, culture and sport, in a media release.
The funds will strengthen tourism growth and develop emerging tourism opportunities, stimulating the recovery of B.C.’s post-pandemic visitor economy. The province said continued investments in destination development will increase employment and job creation, and establish more livable communities while enhancing residents’ quality of life and visitors’ experiences.
The funding includes $242,496 for a new washroom facility at Snaw-Naw-As Campground.
These investments in shovel-ready tourism infrastructure projects support the recovery and resilience of tourism by creating jobs and developing infrastructure that will attract visitors to B.C., according to the release.
Projects were chosen for their demonstrated tourism benefits to communities and British Columbians, along with new jobs, many of which will provide employment for apprentices, youth, new Canadians, women and Indigenous Peoples. Eligible applicants included local governments, First Nations and non-profit organizations, according to the Ministry of Tourism, Arts Culture and Sport.
The projects are part of the second round of the 2021 Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure Program’s (CERIP) Destination Development stream.
In February 2021, the province provided $20 million for 54 projects specifically for tourism through the first round of CERIP. The second investment of $21.3 million in 2022 doubles this, providing a total of $41.3 million for over 100 projects in the tourism industry.
