Harper Government Supports Economic Development Project for Penticton Indian Band

Satik^w Crossing to Provide Opportunities for Jobs and Business in BC Interior

PENTICTON, BC, July 26, 2014 /CNW/ - The Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, Bernard Valcourt today announced a federal government investment in support of the Penticton Indian Band and the construction of a new bridge over the Okanagan River Channel in British Columbia.

The Satik^w Crossing will provide access from Highway 97 to the Channel Lands and is part of a long term economic strategy that will create up to $2 million in annual revenue for the Band and over 600 jobs in the next 10 years. The strategy also includes future development plans of retail space, 270,000 square feet of business/light commercial space, and a 150 room hotel.

Expanding opportunities for First Nations to fully participate in the economy is a priority for the Government of Canada. The federal government will contribute $2.4 million to support construction of the bridge through its Community Opportunity Readiness Program. The Government previously contributed $500,000 to support engineering and design work for the bridge.

Quick Facts

• The Satik^w Crossing will provide access from Highway 97 to the Channel Lands and 60 hectares of Penticton Indian Band land adjacent to the Penticton Regional Airport.
• The bridge project is expected to be tendered in November 2014 and construction is expected to commence late January 2015.

Quotes

"Our Government's investment in the Satik^w Crossing is an important economic asset that will benefit the entire community and is a clear demonstration of our commitment to working with First Nations to create the conditions for stronger, healthier, more self-sufficient communities."

Honourable Bernard Valcourt
Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development

"The B.C. provincial government is delighted to see the Satik^w Crossing Bridge project reach this important milestone. This essential piece of infrastructure will provide the kind of opportunities that will offer real economic and social benefits to the Penticton Indian Band and I applaud their vision and tenacity in taking this project one step closer to reality."

John Rustad
B.C. Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation

"The Penticton Indian Band appreciates Canada's support of this project. The Satik^w Crossing Bridge and development is going to create jobs and expand the shopping opportunities for the Southern Interior. It will be an economic boost for the Band, our certificate of possession land holders and the whole region."

Chief Jonathan Kruger
Penticton Indian Band

"I am proud to support Chief Kruger and to be part of a Government that recognizes the need for investment to create strong economic development projects in our First Nations' communities. The Satik^w Crossing will create jobs, growth and economic prosperity for our region."

Dan Albas
Member of Parliament for Okanagan-Coquihalla

"The Penticton Indian Band is a great contributor to our community, and this new economic development opportunity further strengthens that partnership with all levels of government. This project will create jobs for the band, as well as new infrastructure to benefit locals and visitors."

Dan Ashton
Penticton MLA

"The City of Penticton is pleased to support this initiative by the Penticton Indian Band. I am certain that it will contribute to economic development and prosperity, not only for both of our communities but for the entire South Okanagan region."

Garry Litke
Mayor, City of Penticton

Related Products

First Nation Community profile: Penticton

Associated Links

Community Opportunity Readiness Program
Penticton Indian Band Website

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SOURCE: Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor)

Contacts: 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