The Village of Nakusp will receive half a million dollars in federal funding for its downtown revitalization project.
It’s one of a dozen projects and ski-touring companies across the West Kootenay that will split a piece of $1.2 million from the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada.
Nakusp’s share of $499,722 is by far the largest, however.
“Nakusp’s downtown revitalization allows for its downtown commercial area to properly reflect the renowned beauty of Nakusp’s adjacent waterfront and surrounding natural environment,” village administrator Wayne Robinson said in a news release.
“This project is key to ensuring Nakusp continues to be an attractive place for businesses to thrive, while meeting the needs of its residents.”
Project activities included removing the existing streetscape, adding new landscaping and installing lighting, street furniture, accessible sidewalks and wayfinding signage.
The other projects are as follows.
Rossland Historical Museum and Archives Association
$100,000 to develop an interactive underground tunnel experience to portray Rossland’s mining history and provide a realistic interpretation of life in the Red Mountain mines.
Kootenay Robusters Society
$25,660 towards constructing a dragon boat and equipment storage facility in Christina Lake. Project activities include site preparation, framing, roofing, electrical, and the installation of solar panels.
Kootenay Adaptive Sport Association
$49,050 to upgrade the Nakusp Rail Trail to improve its safety and accessibility for both residents and tourists.
Valkyr Adventures Inc.
$99,800 to expand the capacity of a backcountry ski lodge on Mount Lequereux.
Sol Mountain Touring Ltd.
$82,397 to build additional guest rooms in a backcountry lodge, and develop a new mountain biking and hiking trail near Nakusp.
Valhalla Mountain Touring Ltd.
$67,500 towards expanding visitor experiences for the summer season, including yoga, hot tubbing and hiking.
Big Red Cats Inc.
$60,000 towards building two new snowcat cabins with enhanced health and safety protocols for ski tourists in Rossland.
Hurley Holdings Inc.
$59,000 to renovate cabin accommodations and modernize tour operations in Slocan.
Snowwater Heli-Skiing Inc.
$77,000 towards expanding the company’s mountain trail network to facilitate shoulder season activities such as hiking and biking.
Kootenay Mountain Holidays Inc.
$56,500 improve backcountry ski lodge facilities on Mount Carlyle.
Tamarack Alpine Adventures Inc.
$41,233 to renovate a backcountry lodge in the Purcell Mountains to increase guest capacity and update the kitchen.
