Cumberland received more than $100,000 from the provincial government for two separate projects Monday.
Under the BC Rural Dividend Program, the Province is providing $108,920 to the Village of Cumberland and the United Riders of Cumberland Association for projects that will attract tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.
“Cumberland has so much to offer, and these projects will expand opportunities for residents and tourists alike, so they can enjoy the region’s superb mountain biking trails and explore the village’s rich history,” said Scott Fraser, MLA for Mid Island-Pacific Rim.
Fraser was in Cumberland to make the announcement on behalf of Doug Donaldson, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development.
• The Village of Cumberland is being awarded $29,620 to build a loop trail through the site of No. 1 Japanese Town, with 12 interpretive signs sharing the history of the site.
• The United Riders of Cumberland Association is being awarded $79,300 to complete a detailed layout and oversee construction of a four-kilometre destination climbing non-motorized trail, so users can access the upper part of the Cumberland-Western Trail network without having to travel on resource roads.
“Government is following through on its commitment to help rural communities navigate changes that have impacted local economies, by supporting local business development and creating new partnerships to promote shared prosperity,” Donaldson said. “These rural dividend grants are bringing positive change to rural communities throughout B.C.”
The funding is part of nearly $8 million in 58 project grants being awarded to eligible local governments, First Nations and not-for-profit organizations through the BC Rural Dividend Program. Rural dividend grants help fund projects that that will stabilize rural economies. Grants can be up to $100,000 each, or up to $500,000 each for partnership projects.
To learn more about the BC Rural Dividend Program, visit www.gov.bc.ca/ruraldividend