The District of Tumbler Ridge is receiving a $500,000 grant from the B.C. government for trail and recreation projects. 

They plan to build a series of world-class mountain biking trails. These will include beginner-level trails to help bikers build their skills and have fun, as well as more-challenging cross-country and downhill trails. 

“This boost from the Province to enhance new economic development opportunities for rural and remote communities is very much welcomed by the District of Tumbler Ridge,” said Keith Bertrand, mayor, District of Tumbler Ridge.  

“Here in the Tumbler Ridge Unesco Global Geopark, we have the natural terrain to create some world-class mountain biking, which will definitely complement all of the splendour we have to offer here. Our Tumbler Ridge mountain bike association has done a tremendous job to bring this dream to reality.” 

This project is one of over 150 in the province receiving a grant. The government is giving nearly $14 million in grants to projects that will support economic development and recreational opportunities in rural communities.    

Around $5 million is being given for 39 trail and recreation projects, and almost $9 million for 114 projects that support rural community development. Those selected were First Nations, municipalities and not-for-profit organizations. 

The government hopes these grants will help rural B.C recover from the economic difficulties of the COVID-10 pandemic. Priority was given to economic development projects that have a focus on and a potential for job creation. 

The City of Fort St. John also received a grant: $96,000 for the Fort St John Visitor Centre Feasibility Study. This study will include site, recommended amenities, themes, partners, a concept design plan and estimate for construction and operations.

Doig River First Nation received two grants. One for $100,000 for Conceptual Development Plan for Urban Land Holdings to provide economic analysis of development opportunities for three Doig River First Nation owned urban fee-simple properties in Fort St. John. The other is for $10,000 a feasibility study to assess viability of a hay farming operation on farm lands owned by the Nation.

For a full list of projects chosen, click HERE.