Tseshaht Chief Councillor, Ken Watts and Huu-ay-aht elected Executive Councillor, Evan Cook (Photo credit: Heather Thomson)
PORT ALBERNI – Huu-ay-aht Group of Businesses (HGB), Tseshaht First Nation and MasterBUILT Hotels Ltd. are pleased to announce a new Partnership for the development of a Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham in Port Alberni.
Tseshaht First Nations Chief Councillor Wahmeesh (Ken WaUs) is excited to work with Huu-ay-aht First Nations on this project. He believes the hotel will create a positive ripple effect for the entire region.
“Tseshaht is proud to be partnering with MasterBUILT and our relatives of Huu-ay-aht First Nations as we move towards constructing a much-needed Microtel hotel within the City of Port Alberni,” Wahmeesh explains. “As we move on to the next phases of the amazing project, we know it will be supported by all as we address economic development, employment and training, accommodations, tourism and First Nations working together.”
Huu-ay-aht Councillor Evan Cook, who holds the Economic Development portfolio, echoes these sentiments, pointing out that the project will offer many benefits.
“This is a very exciting project that HGB has been working on for a number of years. This partnership makes it possible to move forward on the Microtel, something that will benefit both nations and the Alberni Valley,” explains Cook. “Each of the partners brings our own unique perspective, and together we make this project stronger. It will offer employment and training opportunities to our people and residents of the Alberni Valley, while providing diversification in our business model.”
“We are very excited to partner with Huu-ay-aht Group of Businesses and Tseshaht First Nation to bring a brand-new hotel to Port Alberni. The Microtel Inn & Suites will raise the level of accommodation for both business and leisure travellers in the market, and more importantly, it will support economic growth in the local community for decades to come” said David Donaldson, President & CEO of MasterBUILT Hotels.
The new partnership plans to construct and operate a 39,000 square foot hotel featuring 76 rooms, a pool and waterslide, and will be designed to allow for future expansion. The three partners are in the process of finalizing the location for the hotel and will make a further announcement once that is done.
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