Vanderhoof, B.C. - If you build it, they will come.

 

That’s the strategy behind two Northern Development Initiative Trust funding announcements aimed at promoting sport and tourism in Vanderhoof. 

 

Vanderhoof’s field of dreams is a premier playing field with a six-lane running track and stadium seating. 

 

Northern Development announced $336,000 toward the first phase of the development at Nechako Valley Secondary School.

 

“It will be able to host large events in a very central location, close to the downtown core,” Vanderhoof Mayor Len Fox said. “The other aspect of the sports field is part of that overall quality of life.”

 

Phase one will see the construction of the playing field, running track and two washrooms.

 

The estimated cost of the project is $1.16 million. It is being funded by Northern Development, District of Vanderhoof, B.C. Olympic Live Sites, the Nechako-Kitimat Development Fund and School District 91.

Construction of phase one is expected to be complete by Nov. 30.

 

Phase two of the project, which is set for future development, will see the construction of change rooms, a concession and administration building, bleachers and fencing.

 

Once complete, user groups anticipate hosting regional competitions in soccer, football, ruby, track and field, and lacrosse at the facility. This sport tourism is expected to generate $125 per visitor per day for local retail and service businesses.

 

Northern Development also announced $247,000 towards an $882,000 revitalization strategy for the town’s downtown area. It’s the fourth phase of a downtown revitalization strategy which began in 2003, Fox said.

Burrard Avenue will receive a makeover from Columbia Street to Victoria Avenue, including new fixtures, sidewalks, lighting, drainage and landscaping.

 

Vanderhoof Chamber of Commerce manager Erin Siemens said the downtown revitalization is already paying dividends for local businesses. Tourism numbers were up in June and August compared to previous years.

“We do have more people interested in walking though the downtown,” Siemens said. “It’s definitely had a positive effect, because it looks nicer as you walk around.”