Following the impactful closure of a local wood mill, the Village of Midway remains intent on a vibrant economic future for Boundary Country.
The local administration recently secured funding under the province’s Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program with the aim of developing an Economic Diversification Plan to foster long-term regional sustainability in the area.
The initiative will bring together stakeholders to identify projects that will open new economic doors for the region.
“Our goal is to mitigate recent job losses in the West Boundary,” stated Midway Mayor Douglas McMynn, “by fostering a resilient and diverse economy throughout the Boundary Region with a healthy mix of small businesses and industry sectors.”
REDIP, part of the B.C. government’s commitment to supporting rural communities, has earmarked $33 million annually for three years to support projects in rural and remote areas. Special focus is given to communities impacted by shifts in the forest sector.
Post the plan’s creation, each community within the Boundary Region will take responsibility for choosing which projects to proceed with. They will then seek funding opportunities to assist in developing and executing.
“Changes to local industries like this have a huge direct impact on local people,” noted Roly Russel, Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Development. “We’ve been working with local leaders to try to help chart a path forward based on what the community wants and where it’s feasible to diversify and support the local economy; this funding will help plan for a brighter and more resilient future for the West Boundary, led by what the communities know they want and need.” Thanks to everyone who has come to the table to help make it happen!” “
The Village of Midway will collaborate with Community Futures Boundary to coordinate the seven-month project, set to commence in July.
The pursuit of economic diversification comes at a critical juncture for rural B.C. communities, according to Brenda Bailey, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation.
“We are giving communities the tools they need to diversify and grow their economies, and create more opportunities and jobs for people across BC,” she stated in December.
THE MIDWAY ADVANCE 