The Burns Lake First Nation is getting set to start construction on a new hotel project on the former site of the Rainbow Motel, along Highway 16.
The lodge will feature 42 rooms, an exercise room, business centre and breakfast cafe.
The First Nation’s Economic Development Officer Wesley Sam says they will be filling a gap in Burns Lake.
“There is a lot of times during the summer, not any rooms in Burns Lake and we will provide that with the new hotel. We had a hotel in the past that was always filled to capacity, so we know there’s a market there.”
He added that although the economy is in a dip, they are anticipating economic development in the region down the road will be a big boost to them.
Sam says that the project will serve another purpose; displaying photographs and art.
“We have a large foyer so we can put in place an interpretive centre for the Burns Lake band and surrounding nations, to highlight our community, nations and history.”
The lodge is being manufactured by Britco in the Lower Mainland and shipped up in pieces. Local contractors will work on the assembly on site.
The modular construction will also give the nation the opportunity to expand in the future. As a part of the project, a new gas station is also being installed on site.
Sam says they plan on breaking ground shortly and plan to be open for the fall of this year.
Something going on in the Bulkley Valley Lakes District you think people should know about?
Send us a news tip by emailing [email protected].
