Nanaimo Moving Forward Despite Slumping Economy
Nanaimo is located in one of the fastest growing regions of BC. The city is changing quickly to meet these needs despite a slumping economy. This month brings even more good news for our expanding community. April highlighted 5 big projects boosting the greater Nanaimo’s infrastructure: the NRGH hospital upgrade, low and no income housing projects, airport runway expansion and upgrade, a facility to make biodiesel fuel from organic waste and Southfork water treatment plant to ensure plentiful and safe water. The downtown core is experiencing a similar surge in prosperity.
With the completion of our Port of Nanaimo Centre (PNC), which houses the Vancouver Island Conference Centre, Shaw Auditorium and the Nanaimo Museum, retail, residential and business opportunities have begun to flourish. Four new downtown and waterfront residential projects are completed or underway inviting more residents to work, participate and spend in the downtown core.The Port Theatre is planning a $10 million studio theatre to compliment the existing main stage. Both theatres combined could showcase as many as 450 performances each year.
Business and vacation travel is being made easier to Nanaimo’s key entry points. Departure Bay Ferry Terminal has been rebuilt to expedite heavy ferry traffic and is home to the new Coastal Renaissance ferry. The airport runway expansion is underway to allow for direct flights to popular charter destinations and for scheduled carriers to land their larger jets. Plans are in the works to build an $18 million cruise ship berth. Such a facility will inject thousands of visitors into downtown from April to October during cruise ship season.
Positive developments continue to occur throughout Nanaimo to meet the needs of the residents and visitors. Plans underway and in the development stages will allow more amenities to be at our doorstep. Business and vacation transportation will be direct to and from Nanaimo without having to transfer thru Victoria or Vancouver.