July 30, 2010

Campbell River Hosts Official Ground Breaking for $8.3M Airport Runway Extension Project

CAMPBELL RIVER - The $8.3 million dollar Airport Runway Extension project officially broke ground today, with federal, provincial and community partners on site to mark the occasion. This significant capital works project will result in two major upgrades: the runway will be extended by 1500 feet to achieve a length of 6500 feet and the airport terminal building will be modernized.

These upgrades will allow a broader range of aircraft to use the airport. They also support the expansion of aviation-related business, industry and training opportunities in Campbell River, and help to improve the passenger experience.

“This project is a vital part of the City’s efforts to expand our options for economic growth,” said Mayor Charlie Cornfield of Campbell River. “It will help to open business doors and encourage opportunities in a range of areas.”

Special guests joining Mayor Cornfield and Council for the ground breaking included John Henderson, Councillor with the Campbell River Indian Band; John Duncan, Member of Parliament for Vancouver Island North; MLA Ron Cantelon from Parksville-Qualicum representing the Province of BC, and Mayor Barry Janyk of Gibsons in his role as Board Chair for the Island Coastal Trust. Also in attendance were a range of airport terminal tenants, airport neighbors, and members of local aviation-related businesses.

Funding for the $8.3 million project is provided by the federal and provincial governments through the Building Canada Fund. Each level of senior government is contributing $2.78M to the project. The Island Coastal Economic Trust is contributing $2.3M towards to project. Campbell River is able to borrow up to $500k from existing airport reserves.

"This project will not only create jobs for the residents of Campbell River, but will also build a foundation for future growth and prosperity. The opportunity for growth is unique as few other airports possess the combination of central geographic location and availability of nearby developable land," said Vancouver Island North MP John Duncan. "The federal government with Canada’s Economic Action Plan is committed to funding important infrastructure improvements and putting people to work,” added Duncan.

“Investments like this runway expansion will really capitalize on Campbell River’s potential as a transportation hub for Vancouver Island, and give the community the opportunity to continue to diversify and grow the local economy,” says Parksville-Qualicum MLA Ron Cantelon.

Island Coastal Economic Trust Chair Barry Janyk stated, “The improvements to YBL will help grow the City and region into a new transportation hub providing fresh opportunities in areas previously unknown. The Trust appreciates the opportunity to be a part of the future of Campbell River.”

“This is a significant milestone to mark the beginning of new economic opportunities for the North Island,” said Comox Valley MLA Don McRae via e-mail, prior to the event. “This expansion creates construction jobs in the short-term and will be a great benefit to the residents and visitors.”

As part of funding requirements the City must complete the project by March 31, 2011. Construction is underway this month and is estimated to run until March 2011. Normal airport operations will be maintained throughout construction, with one alteration: the runway threshold will be moved to 4000 feet during construction hours to accommodate construction activity.

For more information visit the Airport Upgrade pages on the City of Campbell River website www.campbellriver.ca and on the YBL website: www.crairport.ca

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