Minister Philpott congratulates Musqueam Nation on the launch of commercial, retail and residential housing development

VANCOUVER, Sept. 29, 2017 /CNW/ - Our government is committed to renewing Canada's relationship with Indigenous peoples by contributing to improved quality of life and economic growth in Indigenous communities.

The Honourable Jane Philpott, Minister of Indigenous Services, today offered her congratulations to Chief Wayne Sparrow and the Musqueam Nation on the launch of a comprehensive mixed-used, multi-family residential development project.

The project, on the University Endowment Lands, will be marketed to potential developers as a leasehold opportunity for building townhouses, condominiums and a retail component. The project will provide training and job opportunities for the Musqueam Nation, as well as significant, long-term economic benefits. The Government of Canada supported this vision by providing $3 million of the $10 million Phase One planning and infrastructure, including roads, street lighting, and water and wastewater systems at the site.

Quotes

"Musqueam Nation's project is an exciting opportunity for both its members and surrounding communities, and an example of reconciliation in action with the traditional lands recently being returned to the Nation. The project will generate jobs, growth and revenue, and, most importantly, positively contribute to quality of life for the Musqueam Nation."

The Honourable Jane Philpott
Minister of Indigenous Services

"On behalf of Musqueam, I thank Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada for supporting us in this exciting endeavor. The development of Lelem has many positive implications for the future of our people and the community at large. We look forward to creating careers and delivering much-needed homes to Metro Vancouver."

Wayne Sparrow
Musqueam Nation Chief

Quick Facts

• Musqueam Nation's 8.5 hectare commercial and residential development will be situated on a section of the University Endowment Lands acquired through a 2008 Reconciliation Agreement with British Columbia.
• The development has the potential to create 300 full-time and 184 part-time jobs as well as 26 new spin off businesses and leasing opportunities.
• Included within the project are 110,000 square feet of market residential, 30,000 square feet of retail and 43,750 square feet of subsidized housing.

Associated Links

Musqueam Capital Corporation
Musqueam Nation

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SOURCE Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada

Media may contact: Andrew MacKendrick, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Jane Philpott, 819-956-5372; INAC Media Relations, Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, 819-953-1160