Waterfront Development
The development of Powell River's Waterfront has been identified through public consultation as the number one economic development priority. As a result, PRREDS has a established a committee that focusess specifically on waterfront development.
The PRREDS Waterfront Committee is comprised of representatives of PRREDS, the City of Powell River, and the community.
Progress in 2004/2005
- PRREDS, in partnership with Powell River Community Futures, commissioned a major study for the reconfiguration and expansion of south harbour to accomodate more commercial and transient recreational vessels. This study will be the basis of raising funds to expand and provide for new floats in the south harbour.
- In January 2005, PRREDS organized a Waterfront Development Conference, which was hosted by the City of Powell River and the Sliammon First Nation. The focus of the conference was "Coastal Communities Waterfront Development: Challenges and Opportunities". Over 150 people from communities all over the province attended the event. To view the presentations made at the conference click here.
- In January 2005, Stephen Owen, the Federal Minister Responsible for Canada Western Economic Diversification annouced funding for waterfront planning in Powell River under the Western Economic Partnership Agreement (WEPA). The BC Ministry of Small Business and Economic Development, contributed matching funds of $25,000. The Corporation of the District of Powell River also contributed $25,000 towards the planning process.
- In February 2005, PRREDS engaged John Spick Design, Hotson/Bakker/Boniface/Haden and Coriolis Consulting to prepare a waterfront plan for Gibson's Beach to Chruchman's corner with a focus on the identification of economic development opporunities on key sites
- An open house to present the draft waterfront plan was held on April 28/05, and was attended by over 150 people. 151 survery's were filled out at the event. The results of those surveys shows strong support for the plans that were presented. To view the summary of results click here.
- The final Waterfront Plan was released in June 2005. Click here to review the final report.
