The Board of Northern Development has committed $576,000 of funding for three unique, community-building projects including one in Williams Lake.
$200,000 will be going towards the second phase of Williams Lake First Nation’s (WLFN) Memorial Park Cultural Amphitheatre.
“Creating a cultural amphitheatre in downtown Williams Lake has been a goal of ours for many years,” WLFN Chief Willie Sellars stated in a release, “Once complete, the amphitheatre will provide a meaningful gathering place for residents, support Indigenous culture and storytelling, attract cultural tourism, and create economic opportunities for Williams Lake First Nation, local businesses and the broader region.”
Sellars said the Nation is grateful to Northern Development of its support in helping bring this important project to life.
Northern Development said the amphitheatre and surrounding space will be intentionally designed to honor the history and journey of the Williams Lake First Nation and Secwepemc people, guiding visitors through key cultural and historic narratives.
They added once complete, the facility is expected to host 35 programs annually, generating $50,000 in revenue.
Other projects receiving funding:
$300,000 to support Lheidli T’enneh First Nation’s Hydroponic Container Farm to produce nutritious fresh food to directly benefit members through improved food security.
$76,000 for Smithers Area Housing Society Seniors Housing to incentivize the development of eight new two-bedroom housing units in the town to address shortages in available rental housing for Smither’s Senior Population.
Funding will flow through the Economic Infrastructure, Cultural Infrastructure and Northern Housing Incentive programs.
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