Photo credit: cib-bic.ca/
BRITISH COLUMBIA – Two major infrastructure initiatives led by Malahat Nation and Cowichan Tribes are moving forward with a combined $66.7 million in loans from the Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB). The funding will support on-reserve housing, infrastructure upgrades, and community-led economic development on Vancouver Island.
The investments are part of the CIB’s Indigenous Community Infrastructure Initiative (ICII), which has committed over $1 billion to projects developed with Indigenous partners across Canada.
Malahat Nation Project Receives $57.8 Million for Water and Wastewater Infrastructure
Malahat Nation is receiving a $57.8-million loan to replace its 28-year-old water treatment facility and to construct a new wastewater treatment plant. The existing system has reached full capacity, while the septic beds are failing.
By increasing water capacity, the community will be better prepared for emergencies. The wastewater upgrade will help protect the local groundwater, surrounding ecosystem, and Saanich Inlet’s sensitive shellfish beds.
This financing complements $15.8 million in support from Indigenous Services Canada and will enable growth on Malahat Nation’s primary reserve lands, located 25 kilometres northwest of Victoria. Future developments include a multi-residential complex with over 200 units, a facility for Thales (supporting the Department of National Defence’s AJISS Program), and a battery manufacturing plant.
“Today marks a significant step forward — not just for this project, but for the well-being of our entire community. The CIB’s investment in these developments will help deliver a modern, reliable water and wastewater infrastructure. These next steps are vital in creating a brighter future for the next generations, bringing both meaningful employment and the much-needed housing our Nation deserves,” Chief Gordon Harry, Malahat Nation.
Cowichan Tribes Project Secures $8.9 Million for Rivers Edge Development
Cowichan Tribes, through their economic arm Khowutzun Development Corporation (KDC), has secured an $8.9-million loan from the CIB to help advance the Rivers Edge development. The project is being delivered in partnership with BC Housing under the Province’s BC Builds initiative.
Rivers Edge includes two rental apartment buildings, commercial space, community gardens, an outdoor kitchen, and a children’s play area. Located on Cowichan Tribes’ reserve land, the project also features infrastructure investments such as roadwork, utility upgrades, site preparation, streetscaping, and electric vehicle charging stations.
The community-focused development prioritizes Cowichan Tribes citizens, who will have first right of refusal for all units. Twenty percent of homes will be rented at below-market rates.
“Today represents the combined efforts of KDLLP, Cowichan Tribes, the Province of B.C., and the Canada Infrastructure Bank — a true testament to the power of collaboration and community. Our team of architects and engineers has delivered an inspired design that reflects the deep significance of the Cowichan River, the land, and the central role family plays in the lives of Cowichan Tribes citizens. Rivers Edge will provide much-needed housing for Cowichan Tribes and the wider Cowichan Valley, creating a positive legacy that will serve generations to come,” Renée Olson, CEO, Khowutzun Development Corporation.
The broader vision includes generating long-term employment and training opportunities through initiatives such as Cowichan Contractors — a collection of 100% Indigenous-owned companies offering excavation, site servicing, and other construction services. Economic returns from the development will be reinvested directly into the community to support sustained prosperity.
Business Examiner
