Premier Promises Capital projects and Community Support

By 250 News

Whistler, B.C. - The Premier has delivered a speech to the Union of B.C. Municipalities that is full of projects he says will “build on B.C.'s Olympic momentum.”

 "The Olympics united all British Columbians and showed us that we can exceed all expectations when we work together," said Premier Campbell. "We will create smart, clean, safe and vibrant communities that are designed to meet the needs of families in the 21st century and build on the vision and investments we have made in British Columbia."

He announced the next phase of the Province's capital vision that began in 2002 . For the north central region, the projects that will impact this area are:

* Expanding public transit options in regional centres like Prince George, Kamloops, Nanaimo and Courtenay-Comox.

* Fast-tracking the Cariboo Connector.

* Expediting major improvements to other portions of Highways 97, 16, 3 and the Trans-Canada Highway.

* The Province will develop a practical and cost-effective program that will help stop the unabated  decommissioning of resource roads so citizens can continue to safely use them as links to the backcountry.

* The Province will provide additional financing for cycling paths and sidewalks.

Premier Campbell also announced new support for communities, tourism, culture, parks, natural resource industries and initiatives which include:

* The Province will extend the Additional Hotel Room Tax program beyond June 30, 2011.

* The three Beetle Action Coalitions will each receive $1 million a year in additional funding.

* Launching a new multi-year commitment to marketing British Columbia that will be unprecedented in its size, scope and consistency. The campaign will be integrated, focused and well-funded.

* The Premier expressed his full support for moving forward with the Prosperity Mine Project in the South Cariboo.

"Working together we will enhance and market the advantages that exist in our communities and across our province," said Premier Campbell. "We will build on a vision to create a better province that will provide unlimited opportunities for British Columbians today and tomorrow."

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