Harper Government Supports Economic Development Opportunities for Penticton Indian Band in British Columbia

New Satik^w Crossing bridge to provide further business opportunities for First Nation

PENTICTON, BC, March 18, 2014 /CNW/ - The Penticton Indian Band is set to build a new bridge crossing in British Columbia. The Satik^w Crossing will open up many community economic development opportunities for the First Nation by providing further business opportunities, more jobs, and potential for revenue. The bridge will provide access from Highway 97 to Channel Lands -- the location of future development of the First Nation's 250,000 square feet of retail space, 270,000 square feet of business/light commercial park, and a 150 room hotel.

Expanding opportunities for Aboriginal peoples to fully participate in the economy is a priority for the Government of Canada. The Government of Canada contributed $500,000 to support the bridge's engineering and design.  Funding was made available through AANDC's Community Economic Opportunities Program.

Quick Facts

• The Satik^w Crossing bridge will connect Highway 97 to the existing Green Avenue providing access to Channel Lands adjacent the Penticton Regional Airport.
• The investment is made possible through the Community Economic Opportunities Program which provides project-based support to those First Nation and Inuit communities that have the best opportunities for public services in economic development.

Quotes

"Investments like these are examples of how our government supports First Nations in pursuing economic development opportunities for their community and fully participating in Canada's economy to the benefit of both the First Nation and surrounding communities."

Bernard Valcourt
Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development

"The recent funding announcement by AANDC to support a vital bridge project connecting the Penticton Indian Band lands with the City of Penticton will bring critical jobs and growth opportunities for the entire region for years to come."

Chief Jonathan Kruger
Penticton Indian Band

Related Products

Community Economic Opportunities Program (CEOP)
First Nation community profile: Penticton

Associated Links

Penticton Indian Band website

SOURCE: Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada

Erica Meekes
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development
819-997-0002

Media Relations
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
819-953-1160

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