Final report - Integrated Land Management Bureau

Transportation Assessment of the Central & North Coast of BC
consultant in making some inquiries and researching the idea. When
approached, BC Ferries refused to engage in a discussion about the proposal.
The Joint Land and Resource Forum should consider supporting the Haisla First
Nation in seeking funding to undertake a feasibility study and associated
business plan (if the feasibility work indicates proceeding to the business plan
is worthwhile). This more in-depth research would identify the parameters of
the project and its associated risks so that all stakeholders could make a sound
stop/go decision.
Kitimat is closer by half to Hartley Bay than is Prince Rupert and possibly has
some distance advantages for Klemtu and Bella Bella from Port Hardy. To
date, however there has been no regular service between Kitimat and any of
these communities although there is some contracted boat service from Hartley
Bay and Kitimat.
5.2 Community Level Recommendations
► Obtain funding for improvements to Kitkatla’s float dock
Kitkatla has relatively limited transportation infrastructure and services for a
community of its population, about 500. Its small craft harbour performs
several functions in the community and its current needs for a fuel station,
float dock improvements and channel dredging are important when
transportation infrastructure for community wellbeing and economic
development is limited. The likely cost of these works is probably small when
thought of in terms of cost per resident of Kitkatla. A likely candidate for
funding is DFO’s Small Craft Harbours.
► Build a new ferry dock at Aero Point
Lax Kw’alaams band council and administration has sought cooperation from
the BC Government for several years to facilitate the location of a new ferry
dock at Aero Point. The BC Government should get behind this project as soon
as possible given its obvious economic, social and environmental benefits for
the Lax Kw’alaams and Prince Rupert communities.
► Support planning efforts in Prince Rupert and area, specifically:
• Tsimshian Access project being spearheaded by North Coast communities.
• planned expansion of terminals and attraction of additional port services in
Port of Prince Rupert;
• Undertake a gap analysis and feasibility study of services to improve the
capacity and service quality of the Prince Rupert Airport to act as a transshipment
facility for fish and seafood products.
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