Pacific Economic Development grant provides $300,000 towards Coldstream Station project

Photo: Contributed

Coldstream Station has received a $300,000 boost from the federal government.

Harjit S. Sajjan, minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency, announced the grant Thursday, via the Canada Community Revitalization Fund.

Coldstream Station, under construction on Kalamalka Road, will be a central gathering area with access to the popular Okanagan Rail Trail, public amenities, tourism information, and commercial spaces.

"The project will reinvigorate community gatherings by providing a new venue for farmers markets, food vendors and local celebrations," the government says in a press release.

"Coldstream Station is going to provide a much needed gathering area to support the Okanagan Rail Trail and its many users. As the northern parking lot for the trail, it will provide the primary parking lot for users accessing the trail and also as the hub for those accessing other recreational amenities in our community. It will also facilitate community events and functions providing a safe, centralized space for our community," said Coldstream Mayor Jim Garlick.

Shared public spaces bring people together and stimulate local economies, Pacific Economic Development says.

"In Coldstream, as in so many places across Canada, the community is ready to welcome back residents and visitors alike."

Sajjan said: "Now it's time to invest in the shared public spaces that will safely bring people together and help communities grow and thrive well into the future."

The Canada Community Revitalization Fund will provide $500 million over two years to regional development agencies to invest in shared and inclusive public spaces.