CBT Helps Kimberley Get Shovels In the Ground For New Conference Centre
Friday, October 30, 2009

Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) is pleased to provide $300,000 to the City of Kimberley’s conference centre project.

“We are happy to announce our support for the construction of Kimberley’s new conference facilities, as we believe the project will have a positive impact in the community and the region, providing long-term economic benefits to residents and businesses,” said Neil Muth, CBT President and CEO. “The City has done an incredible job in pulling the community together in the face of the Sullivan Mine closure, and this project joins the many others they have successfully implemented to build the infrastructure to support their economic development strategy.”

The 12,000 square foot convention centre, located at the base of Kimberley Alpine Resort will be the largest in the East Kootenay, providing sitting-room for up to 350 people and will be used as a year-round venue that will compliment the existing tourism market.

“The City of Kimberley appreciates the substantial commitment that Columbia Basin Trust is making to this project," said Mayor Jim Ogilvie. “With CBT as a partner we are now able to put shovels to ground; a major step in realizing the City’s commitment to diversifying its economy.”

The convention centre will contain several break-out rooms, office space and will be integrated with the City’s Paralympic Training Centre. With the help of local contractors and businesses, it is anticipated that facility will be completed by September 2010.

“New Dawn Developments and their many sub-trades have really worked hard at bringing this project within budget,” said Ogilvie. “New Dawn Developments anticipates at least 85 per cent of the work and materials will be supplied by local businesses. This project will contribute substantially to our regional economy during and after construction.”

In addition to CBT’s $300,000 contribution, the $6-million project is receiving funding from the City of Kimberley, $2-million in federal and provincial infrastructure grants, $2.5-million in additional provincial grants and Resorts of the Canadian Rockies (RCR) is contributing $300,000, as well as donating the land for the project valued at $450,000.

Earlier this year, CBT provided $57,000 to help renovate Kimberley’s curling facility, part of the City’s vision to become a North American leader in providing quality Paralympic training facilities.

CBT delivers economic, social, and environmental benefits to the residents of the Columbia Basin. To learn more about CBT programs and initiatives, visit www.cbt.org or call 1-800-505-8998.