The expansion of the Chims property was made possible by recent funding
PORT ALBERNI – Chims Motel and Guest House has been announced as the recipient of $99,999 from PacifiCan, the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada.
The funding will help cover the costs of constructing an Indigenous cultural centre and revitalize lodgings at their location on Highway 4, west of Port Alberni.
The Indigenous cultural centre is now at lock-up stage, with two bathrooms, and plans are to complete the inside in 2024. The work on the property has been done in stages.
“What we have done in six year, is beyond my wildest dreams,” says Chims General Manager Naomi Nicholson. “Without this specific grant program, we would never have been able to do this next stage.”
The guest houses are now equipped with decks and new roofing, and a third guest house has been completed. The majority of the project and infrastructure work was done by VCR Construction and Tilly’s Trucking & Excavating.
The expansion of the property is important due to lack of accommodation in Port Alberni, which was hit hard due to this summer’s fires, was most of the West Coast of Vancouver Island.
PacifiCan announced over $2.6 million in funding for 16 projects across Vancouver Island and the Coast. This includes $750,000 for one project funded through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund and over $1.9 million for 15 projects funded through the Tourism Relief Fund. Communities benefiting from the announcement include Victoria, Sooke, Port Alberni, Gibsons, Tofino, Kyuquot, Courtenay, Powell River, Heriot Bay on Quadra Island, Ucluelet and Nanaimo.
K’όmoks First Nation is receiving $750,000 through the Canada Community Revitalization fund to help build a community park and gathering space in Comox. New amenities will include a playground, gazebo, washroom, and outdoor kitchen. This will be the first outdoor gathering space for the K’όmoks First Nation.
PacifiCan opened offices in Victoria and Campbell River in November 2022.
“From unique outdoor adventure and cultural experiences to breathtaking parks, lakes and heritage sites, Vancouver Island and the Coast of BC is a world-class place to visit or call home,” says Harjit Sajjan, Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada. “The announcement demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to supporting economic development across British Columbia. Investing in shared public spaces and tourism experiences will bring communities together and ensure that the island and coastal regions thrive well into the future.”
The Canada Community Revitalization Fund provides $500 million over two years and the Tourism Relief Fund provides $500 million over two years to help tourism businesses and organizations.
See full list of projects here
Business Examiner Staff
