Schedule “A”
MOUNTAIN-VALLEY COMMUNITY RESORT DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY
(AS A PART OF THE RESORT MUNICIPALITY INITIATIVE APPLICATION)
SUBMITTED BY:
DISTRICT OF INVERMERE
MOUNTAIN - VALLEY COMMUNITY First Draft: January 2011 Second Draft: March 2011 Final Draft: October 2011
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION ...... 2
2. QUALIFICATION CRITERIA ...... 2
3. STAKEHOLDER COLLABORATION ...... 2
4. VISION ...... 3
5. ENVIRONMENTAL SCAN ...... 3
6. COMPREHENSIVE OUTCOMES ...... 5
7. CAPITAL AND PROGRAM PROJECTS ...... 6 A. Kinsmen Beach Improvement Program ...... 6 B. Mountain-Valley Shuttle Service ...... 8 C. Sign Strategy and Implementation ...... ……9 D. 7th Avenue Public Space ...... 12 E. Inter Community Trail System ...... 13Error! Bookmark not defined.
8. SUMMARY OF RDS FUNDING FOR CAPITAL AND PROJECT PROGRAMS ...... 14
9. PLANNING CONSISTENCY ...... 15
10. COMMUNICATIONS PLAN ...... 17
APPENDIX A: RESORT PROJECT/PROGRAM CHECKLIST
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1. INTRODUCTION
As the greater Invermere area has grown over the last 20 years, tourism has had an increased impact on the local community. The economy has diversified from resource-dependent activities (logging and mining predominantly) to include tourism, recreational businesses, and industries associated with amenity migrants. The Invermere greater area must provide high quality amenities and infrastructure to accommodate the influx of people into the region. The Resort Development Strategy (RDS) will enable the Invermere area to benefit directly from the Hotel Room Tax. The RDS will enable the implementation of unique tourism-focused projects, improving the visitor experience while enhancing community character and business opportunities.
2. QUALIFICATION CRITERIA
2% Additional Hotel Room Tax: approved by District of Invermere Council on August 14, 2008. Resort Development Strategy based on broad stakeholder engagement: as provided in this report. Resort Region Designation: approved by District of Invermere Council on August 14, 2008.
District of Invermere Resolution:
“BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE District of Invermere wishes to be designated a resort region under section 6.8 of the Local Government Act and to participate in the British Columbia Resort Municipality Initiative:
AND THAT the District of Invermere approves a resort development strategy;
AND THAT the District requests the Regional District to consider an Invermere Area Additional Hotel Tax;
AND FURTHER THAT the District authorizes the Mayor to sign a Memorandum of Agreement on the Hotel Room Tax with the provincial government.”
3. STAKEHOLDER COLLABORATION
In 2008, the District undertook an extensive public consultation process with the stakeholder groups and the community to determine the importance of this Resort Development Strategy and the projects proposed. In consideration of this process and the fact that the District Resort Development Strategy is only two years old, the project list was reviewed and updated by the key stakeholder group outlined below.
The Mountain-Valley Community RDS was prepared through consultation with key business and governance stakeholders. The area proposed for inclusion within the RDS includes the District of Invermere and Panorama Mountain Village as per the application for designation as a Resort Region under the Local Government Act. The RDS stakeholders included in the formal information-gathering process represent:
Regional District of East Kootenay Electoral Area “F”;
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District of Invermere; Panorama Mountain Resort; and Members of the Destination Marketing Organization;
4. VISION
The RDS stakeholders crafted a vision specifically for the RDS and identified this area including the District of Invermere and Panorama Mountain Village as the “Mountain-Valley Community”.
The RDS vision statement is:
“The Mountain and Valley Community offers full and part-time residents and visitors a beautiful natural setting, recreational opportunities, and a dynamic small town community character. The Mountain-Valley Community is an international tourism destination because of its natural beauty and stunning location. Resorts provide excellent accommodation and recreational opportunities in this mountain-valley setting. Successful commercial and recreation endeavours must balance the needs of all, including residents, part-time residents and visitors.”
5. ENVIRONMENTAL SCAN
The Mountain-Valley Community is located in the Columbia Valley on the shores of Lake Windermere. Bolstered by the Panorama Mountain Village, the Mountain-Valley Community is a four season’s resort destination attracting visitors from all over the world. Close proximity to some of Canada’s most spectacular National Parks, Kootenay National Park and Banff National Park, the Mountain-Valley Community provides unparalleled attractions and opportunities.
The District experiences large seasonal population changes. Through the winter month, due to the ski season, our population increases from 3000 residents to approximately 5000 on any given weekend and probably significantly more through the Holiday season. The months of July and August see a much more substantial increase in population which ranges from 10000 to 12000 persons within the District and an additional population increase from the unincorporated rural area of 10000 to 15000 persons.
This population increase is a combination of part-time homeowners and visitors to the valley. It has been difficult to separate, as the second homeowners use their homes for their recreational purposes while also providing their homes for short term accommodation stays.
The following list highlights the Mountain-Valley Community’s strengths and provides context for tourism generation and attraction.
Geographic Location – The Mountain-Valley Community is located next to the United Nation’s World Heritage Sites of Kootenay National Park and Banff National Park. The National Parks draw in visitors from all over the world. This area also includes the Columbia Valley Wetland which is a Ramsar Site meaning that it is identified as a wetland of international importance. The Mountain-Valley Community is a 277 km drive to Calgary, Alberta, and is within close proximity to the United States.
Natural Beauty – The Mountain-Valley Community’s location, between the Purcell and Rocky Mountain ranges, offers dramatic vistas and scenic landscapes. The natural geology of the region has created natural hot springs and Lake Windermere, providing many recreation pursuits.
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Cultural Resources – The Mountain-Valley Community has a colourful and rich history. Local First Nations have been calling this region home for centuries, reinforcing strong cultural and historic ties to the land based on a relationship of sustenance that continues to the present. Mining and trapping brought European settlement and further diversity of cultures and traditions.
Diverse Ecology – Within the Mountain-Valley Community greater area several ecosystems are found. The Purcell Wilderness Conservancy Park, located 20 km from the Mountain- Valley Community, encompasses close to 200,000 ha of pristine wilderness. The Conservancy Park is home to five major ecosystems and was created to maintain the viability and diversity of these ecosystems. The Mountain-Valley Community is home to a variety of flora and fauna, and is an important habitat for birds, whitetail deer, black and grizzly bears, caribou, elk and mountain goats.
Outdoor Recreational Opportunities – The four season’s climate and the geographic location provide the Mountain-Valley Community with a full range of recreational activities. Lake Windermere and the mountains are the focus for recreational activities with summer and winter activities for both. Residents and visitors alike enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as golf, backcountry camping, hunting, curling, fishing, skiing (water, downhill and cross-country), canoeing, hiking, cycling, white water rafting, kayaking and swimming.
Community Character – The residents are proud of Invermere’s small town charm and friendliness of the residents. Invermere is an authentic community with real amenities for both visitors and residents. A thriving local artistic scene and community festivals enhance and create a welcoming community.
Local Amenities – The Mountain-Valley Community has many amenities which are traditionally found in larger communities. The downtown shopping district provides a pleasant environment with small shops for everyone to enjoy. The local farmer’s market provides fresh produce and handcrafted items. Entrepreneurial businesses, like Kicking Horse Coffee, provide inspiration and character to the community. Airport access is within close proximity with service from three airports: Cranbrook, Fairmont and Invermere.
As with any community, there are issues that could be improved. Within the Mountain-Valley Community, the following challenges have been identified and related to the RDS projects identified in the next section:
Accessibility Challenges – Transportation services could be improved in a number of ways including:
- Closer airports; - Improved pedestrian connections in the downtown and to Lake Windermere; - Options for recreational vehicles to access Lake Windermere; - Improved parking needs; - Utilizing the railway connection for people transportation; - Boat Launch; - Providing better connections from highway traffic into Invermere’s downtown; and - Unique opportunities for residents and visitors with accessibility challenges.
While transportation is seen as a challenge to encourage people to visit Invermere, some local area residents have also changed their behaviour by reducing their downtown visits on weekends and during the high tourism season because of the increased density of people, increased pace of activity and decreased safety.
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Diversify and Enhance Commercial Options – While the Mountain-Valley Community has many recreational pursuits, visitors and residents would like to see a variety of entertainment options. The lack of a night-time economy (particularly restaurants) and a public gathering place in Invermere were highlighted concerns, along with a strong dependence on seasonality and long weekends. The small number of bed units within the District of Invermere is a constraint to tourism development. Lack of staff is another concern related to providing a high level of service for visitors and local consumers.
Lack of Services – The RDS stakeholders identified a need for increased services. Essential services shortages, such as healthcare and policing, along with general staffing and service provision. Concern over the longevity of the District Marketing Organization was also identified.
Poor access between Invermere and Panorama Mountain Village – Currently connections between the District of Invermere and Panorama Mountain Village are limited.
Affordability – With the increased cost of living, affordability has become a concern among the residents of the Mountain-Valley Community. The cost of products and services, the lack of large scale shopping options, and housing affordability are a concern.
6. COMPREHENSIVE OUTCOMES
These five projects will have significant, positive outcomes for the Mountain-Valley Community including:
Enhanced tourism activities and amenities; Increased tourism activity resulting in increased business revenue and year round employment opportunities; Improved transportation alternatives that will reduce the reliance on personal vehicles, reduce GHG emissions and improve air quality; Promote business diversification and support Invermere as a community in transition; Support the community’s current needs and previous commitments through their incremental nature; and Further enhance partnership and collaboration in the area.
To measure the success of this overall RDS, the Mountain-Valley Community will monitor performance indicators in addition to the project specific measure of success. The indicators to measure the overall performance of this strategy are:
Increased visitors - Increase in number of new bed units (target 15% increase from 2008 levels) - Increase in year round occupancy rates (target 10% increase per annum from 2008 levels)
Increased employment - Increase in year round tourism fulltime equivalent employees (target 10% increase over the 5 year program based upon 2011 levels )
Increased diversification of economy - Increased municipal commercial tax revenue and business licenses (target 2% increase per annum over 2011 levels) - Increased commercial tax assessment value (target 2% increase per annum over 2011 levels) - Increase in tourism businesses (target 8% based on business licenses issued)
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Increased alternative transportation - Increased alternative transportation ridership options including public transit, shuttle buses and cycling options (target 30% increase over 2008) - Net decrease in traffic counts compared to population growth (target 10% over 2008 levels) - Decrease in GHG emissions (target 10% decrease over 2008 levels)
7. CAPITAL AND PROGRAM PROJECTS
The RDS stakeholders identified priority projects for inclusion in this strategy. Collaboration between all the stakeholders resulted in unanimous support for two projects as the highest priorities (Kinsmen Beach Improvement Program and Mountain-Valley Shuttle Service), while identifying three additional projects to be completed if funding is available.
For the purposes of budgeting, the Hotel Room Tax (Resorts) transfer funds have generally been attributed to capital investments and amenities which will increase tourism activity to the region. Funds generated by the 2% Additional Hotel Room Tax will be set aside for promotion and marketing of the community. The capital components of most of these projects will require additional funding (as discussed in Section 8).
A. Kinsmen Beach Improvement Program
Description
The Kinsmen Beach Improvement Program will ensure that Kinsmen Beach remains a welcoming and active centre within the heart of Invermere. Found on the shores of Lake Windermere, this public beach is an important destination for Invermere.
It is envisioned that the Kinsmen Beach Improvement Program would serve to:
Rehabilitate and improve maintenance of beach facilities to increase accessibility in and through the park; Improve connections and increase accessibility to Kinsmen Beach; and Provide infrastructure to expand opportunities for festivals and ongoing public entertainment.
Development of the Kinsmen Beach Improvement Program will entail detailed analysis, design and an implementation strategy including the construction of facilities and amenities, as well as the capital requirements for maintenance.
Improving the connectivity between Kinsmen Beach and the 7th Avenue shopping district will foster a cohesive downtown environment. Improved access and signage to the beach will provide direct linkages throughout the town site and increase awareness of local amenities.
Providing funding sources for beach improvements, facilities and activities are important to maintain a high quality beach experience. It is anticipated that the Kinsmen Beach Improvement Program would result in strategies such as daily beach raking, general maintenance, garbage, recycling and composting collection, winterization of washroom and concession facilities, other winter amenities, improved electrical service, safety provisions, beach volleyball facilities, lighting, improved accessibility and street furniture. The reclamation of the beach itself, improved facilities and linkages to 7th Avenue will enable
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greater enjoyment of Kinsmen Beach and provide the opportunity for special events to be hosted.
Rationale
Providing high quality facilities, linkages and expanding the variety of activities will enhance the experience of Lake Windermere for residents, part-time residents and visitors. It is expected that the investment into the beach and improving the connectivity will increase visitor activity and length of stay within Invermere. Significant improvements to the beach infrastructure will anchor Invermere’s downtown revitalizations efforts and will benefit both the visitor and residents of Invermere. This significant infrastructure investment will result in greater opportunities for new festivals and public events. The high profile location of Kinsmen Beach and the opportunities that it generates makes the Kinsmen Beach Improvement Program a high priority project.
Partners and Collaboration
To implement a successful improvement program, joint coordination between the District of Invermere and community organizations is required.
Project Specific Measures of Success
The project will be measured by the following key indicators:
Increased visitors - Increased footfall within 7th Avenue Shopping District (target 20% increase – combined with 7th Avenue Public Space) - Number of visitors to Kinsmen Beach (target 10% increase) Increased activity and use - An increase in events, festivals and activities held at the beach (target increase 1 event/summer month)
Anticipated Outcomes
It is anticipated that the Kinsmen Beach Improvement Program will generate more visitors to the District of Invermere’s central business district and to Kinsmen Beach. With increased amenities, connections, and special events, the beach will increase the vibrancy of the downtown and generate more day trips from residents and visitors. The increased footfall will enhance economic activity and vibrancy within the central business district. It is anticipated the increase in tourism will stimulate the local economy and create additional business opportunities.
Scheduling and Budget
Total RDS Year Tasks Budget Contribution 2012 Upgrading Beach Facilities – Kinsmen $300,000 $300,000 Beach Amenity Building, Spray Park, recreational sports, Playground and pathway improvements 2013 Capital purchase of maintenance $20,000 $20,000 equipment, tourism infrastructure upgrades and rehabilitation and operational costs 2014 Capital purchase of maintenance $20,000 $20,000 equipment, tourism infrastructure
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upgrades and rehabilitation and operational costs 2015 Capital purchase of maintenance $20,000 $20,000 equipment, tourism infrastructure upgrades and rehabilitation and operational costs 2016 Capital purchase of maintenance $80,000 $40,000 equipment, tourism infrastructure upgrades and rehabilitation and operational costs TOTAL $440,000 $400,000
B. Mountain-Valley Shuttle Service
Description
Improving connections and accessibility between the District of Invermere and Panorama Mountain Village is a strategic project envisioned to enhance tourism within the Mountain- Valley Community.
The Mountain-Valley Shuttle Service will provide direct vehicular access between Invermere and Panorama Mountain Village. This program will build upon an existing shuttle service currently offered by Panorama Mountain Village. It is envisioned that the service would provide year-round access between the town-site and the resort. This direct access will increase resort guests’ awareness of and accessibility to the local amenities found in Invermere. It will also enable Invermere resident’s greater access to the ski hill. This project will work with the contracting service provider to ensure the shuttle service utilizes green technology through hybrid vehicles or renewable energy options. The move to green technology could result in a lease to purchase agreement or other such flexible options resulting in a green transportation fleet.
This project will involve expanding the current service to benefit a greater number of residents and visitors year round including reviewing accessible forms of transport. The funding will be used directly to implement the Valley Shuttle Service. The service will be provided by contracted services managed by Panorama Mountain Village.
This service currently uses smaller busses to increase timing of routes through the community. The existing shuttle service feeds from the local hotels and short term accommodations, the existing public transit system, local schools and the downtown core to and from the ski hill. The driver is required to count staff users, residents and visitors from the various accommodators. Over the two years of full operation, this system has seen growth in ridership from 3,000 riders per winter season to just over 15,000 using the system last winter. Currently, the resort also runs a regular shuttle from Calgary to Panorama to bring guests to the mountain.
However, the spring, summer and fall usage has not been sufficient to continue this program through the remainder of the year. The resort and the District continue to work together to develop programs that could see this operate on a year round basis and potentially expand this service to other communities in the valley and the National Parks.
Rationale
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Panorama Mountain Village is an important tourism generator and amenity for Invermere residents. The resort draws visitors from all over the world due to the challenging downhill ski runs in the winter, and golfing and cycling activities in the summer.
Implementing the Mountain-Valley Shuttle Service will provide both residents and visitors alike with a direct, sustainable and convenient transportation link. This program will also reduce carbon emissions by offering alternative public transportation with green technology. The shuttle will increase resort guests’ awareness of the amenities found within Invermere. This will increase trade within in the town, and provide visitors with greater activity choices. Accessibility options within the community will be greatly enhanced through this service.
Partners and Collaboration
To ensure successful implementation and continued high quality service, dedicated partnerships will be required.
The key partners identified for the Valley Shuttle Service are the District of Invermere, Panorama Mountain Village, and the Regional District of East Kootenay. This project will be developed from the current shuttle service provided by Panorama Mountain Village, and will aim to incorporate the transit service offered through the Regional District of East Kootenay.
Project Specific Measures of Success
The project will be measured by the following key indicators:
Increased alternative transportation - Increased ridership levels (target 30% increase)
Anticipated Outcomes
With improved linkages and connections between the District of Invermere and Panorama Mountain Village, it is anticipated that tourism activity will increase within the Mountain- Valley Community. The increased access will promote trips into Invermere by the resort’s guests and provide a way for local residents to access the resort, including night skiing. Invermere will expect to have greater demand for nightlife opportunities and a greater diversity of business investment as a result. The addition of the Mountain-Valley Shuttle Service will also improve safety concerns by providing a transportation service available to residents and part-time residents thereby reducing the number of hitchhikers on the highway.
The economic spinoff for the District of Invermere is expected to be positive. Improving access between the District and the resort will increase awareness of the amenities and activities found within the Mountain-Valley Community. It is anticipated that the additional tourism activities will result in an increase in the businesses and services provided within Invermere. The visitor satisfaction is expected to improve for Panorama guests as they will have additional entertainment options and ease of mobility.
Scheduling and Budget
Total Year Tasks RDS Contribution Budget 2012 Valley Shuttle Service contract $85,000 $35,000 2013 Valley Shuttle Service contract $85,000 $35,000 2014 Valley Shuttle Service contract $85,000 $35,000 2015 Valley Shuttle Service contract $85,000 $35,000
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2016 Valley Shuttle Service contract $85,000 $35,000 TOTAL $425,000 $175,000
C. Signage Strategy and Implementation
Description
The program will begin with the development of a comprehensive strategy and plan that will detail the design, technical specifications, locations, content, and business case for the implementation of a tiered community program of directional, interpretive, and informational messages. Further, the plan will outline strategies for cluster development and elimination of traditional sign presence and locations. The tiers include signs and messages contextualizing:
• Community arrival by corporate entrance • Community and public facilities and attraction directions • Clustered retail business directional and public information • Specific facility entrances • Green space and pathway/trails directional, including interpretive and location mapping of destination areas within the municipality, as well as a number of outdoor recreation destinations within the surrounding region.
Rationale
This has been clearly identified by community partners and citizens as the highest priority item for tourism infrastructure improvements. Invermere currently suffers from an acute range of negative impacts surrounding signage, which continues to compromise visitor experience and create confusion, deter community efforts at beautification, lower community pride, and annoy residents.
Coupled with a current condition of scattered, poorly designed, and inadequate public and business signs, the complete lack of consistent, informative, attractive, and simple messages that are particularly paramount to a resort based community has been widely considered as the highest detriment to visitor satisfaction and resident pride in Invermere. This may also be responsible for the lack of any significant movement toward beautification and architectural renewal by local business.
Adequate directional signage to guide visitors to Panorama Mountain Village and other key tourist attractions are poorly signed or not all. Rectifying this situation is critical to ensuring these attractions continue to be used, as well as maintaining a professional brand of management for the area.
Partners and Collaboration
Input and collaborative cooperation to develop this program will be sought with the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce, the Invermere Business Committee, Panorama Mountain Village, the Ministry of Transportation, and Columbia Valley Arts in order to garner as much collaboration as possible to meet as many expectations that will benefit the community as possible.
Project Specific Measures of Success
Implementation will see increased resort activity and amenities as measured by visitation to the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitor Information Centre and to Panorama
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Mountain Village. Additionally Invermere will see an increased tourism component of the local economy as people will be encouraged off of the highway and into the town to explore and use the amenities and businesses available to them. A heightened guest experience will result in an increase in occupancy and visitor feedback, and of even more broader benefit will be the catalyzing nature of this initiative in increasing private investment by sparking rejuvenation in business community revitalization projects, community participation, and general beautification tactics.
Anticipated Outcomes
An improved signage program will increase the awareness to visitors and residents of the amenities available within the community. Local economic success depends upon the ability of visitors and residents to find their way easily to local businesses or public amenities.
Scheduling and Budget
Total RDS Year Tasks Budget Contribution 2012 Development of Gateway Signage $80,000 $50,000 Design, confirmation of sites and construction 2013 Construct and install business $50,000 $50,000 directional signs 2014 Construct and install public $25,000 $20,000 amenities, destinations, and pathway interpretive signs 2015 Construct and install public $25,000 $20,000 amenities, destinations, and pathway interpretive signs 2016 Construct and install public $25,000 $20,000 amenities, destinations, and pathway interpretive signs TOTAL $205,000 $160,000
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D. 7th Avenue Public Space Description
This project expands on the public space project completed in 2009 and identifies designs, revitalizes and programs pedestrian public spaces along 7th Avenue (Main Street) to improve and enhance the visitor experience and increase foot traffic within the downtown core. The project will revitalize and promote the tourism-oriented aspects of 7th Avenue in general. This project will aim to improve the pedestrian and visitor experience in the downtown core, by linking areas of downtown, improving and enhancing sidewalks and green spaces, adding street furniture, improving parking opportunities and programming with live entertainment throughout the downtown core for special occasions. The number of visitors to the region has grown significantly and the infrastructure to handle these demands such as public washrooms, benches and recycling/garbage bins needs to be improved and enhanced to accommodate this growth.
Rationale
This project will create an attractive and enjoyable downtown environment which will encourage visitors to spend longer periods of time in Invermere’s central business district to the benefit of local businesses. A lively downtown will promote community character and make the District of Invermere a year-round destination, reducing seasonality. The improvement of pedestrian facilities downtown will enable Invermere to increase opportunities for diverse tourism activities.
Partners and Collaboration
In order for the revitalization of a 7th Avenue public gathering space to be successful, the District of Invermere will partner with the local business community and the Invermere Business Committee to ensure revitalization efforts support the needs of local businesses.
Project Specific Measures of Success
This project will be measured by the following key indicators:
Increase activities - Increased events hosted in the public gathering space (target 6 events per year) - Increased attendance at events (target 5% increase per event per annum) - Increased small business development in the downtown core (target 2% increase in new businesses opening in downtown per annum) - Increased commercial rental space construction (target 2% increase in floor space per annum)
Increased visitors to the 7th Avenue - Increased footfall along the 7th Avenue shopping district (target 20% - combined with results from Kinsmen Beach)
Anticipated Outcomes
The tourism outcome expected from this project is increased visitor activity as a revitalized downtown will make the District of Invermere a year-round destination for visitors and part- time residents. New and increased numbers of festivals and community events will be a significant result of this project. It is also anticipated that this project will encourage visitors to stay for longer periods of time to enjoy the improvements to the charming downtown.
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The economic outcomes expected from this project are increased and diversified businesses as more downtown foot traffic will result in increased sales year round and increased resort employment.
Scheduling and Budget
Total RDS Year Tasks Budget Contribution 2011- Pedestrian Improvements $200,000 $135,000 15 2011- Community Events $50,000 $40,000 15 TOTAL $250,000 $175,000
E. Inter-Community Pathway System (formerly known as Invermere and Panorama Trail System Projects)
Description
The goal of this project is to construct a greenway trail connecting Radium and Panorama to Invermere. Planning and coordination efforts will be provided by the Columbia River Greenways Alliance with the focus of the RDS contribution on the capital trail construction costs.
This project will connect the downtown cores of Radium and the Mountain Resort with Invermere by linking them with a non-motorized trail network approximately 38 kilometres in length. This trail network will provide an alternate means of transportation between these communities including cycling, hiking, and cross-country skiing.
These trails will provide the potential for year-round recreation as it will involve the construction and maintenance of trails for non-motorized use. As such, these trails will act as educational routes, providing local residents, visitors and students with the potential to gain localized environmental, cultural and historic knowledge. The trail will provide the users with an important crossing of the Columbia River, improving linkages throughout the District.
Similar to the Invermere and Panorama Trail System, this project will involve significant partnership. Completion of the entire project will involve stakeholder meetings, conceptual planning and design, construction design, and construction of the trail. The RDS funding will be dedicated to trail construction with partnership and additional grant funding for planning and design.
Rationale
This project provides numerous benefits:
Connects communities with alternate transportation infrastructure and reduces greenhouse gas emissions; Improves health and well-being options for visitors and residents; Provides cultural and environmental education through interpretive panels constructed along the trail network; and Optimizes land use within multiple adjacent jurisdictions.
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Partners and Collaboration
The lead partner for this project will be the Columbia River Greenways Alliance. Other partners for this project include the District of Invermere, Panorama Mountain Resort, the Regional District of East Kootenay, Village of Radium, Shuswap Band, the East Kootenay Conservation Partnership, Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, Columbia Valley Cycling Society and the Columbia Basin Trust.
Project Specific Measures of Success
The project will be measured by the following key indicators:
Number of trail maps distributed (target 30% increase); and Number of visitor information requests at the Visitor Information Centre (target 30% increase).
Anticipated Outcomes
The tourism outcome expected from this project is increased visitor activity as people become aware of the recreational and educational opportunities along the Columbia River Greenway.
The economic outcomes expected from this project are increased tourism to the District and increased diversity and revenue for recreational businesses.
Scheduling and Budget
Total RDS Year Tasks Budget Contribution 2012 Support for a stakeholder committee to $30,000 Not applicable involve public consultation and develop a Terms of Reference (not included in RDS funded components) 2013 Trail route planning (not included in RDS $25,000 Not applicable funded components) 2014-16 Trail building $300,000 $40,000 TOTAL $355,000 $40,000 * Where the RDS contribution is “Not applicable”, this information has only been included for completeness and clarity of the project requirements. These components and costs are not considered part of the official RDS.
8. SUMMARY OF RDS FUNDING FOR CAPITAL AND PROJECT PROGRAMS
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Total A. Kinsmen Beach $300,000 $20,000 $20,000 $20,000 $40,000 $400,000 Improvement Program B. Mountain-Valley $35,000 $35,000 $35,000 $35,000 $35,000 $175,000
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Shuttle Service C. Signage Strategy $50,000 $50,000 $20,000 $20,000 $20,000 $160,000 and Implementation D. 7th Avenue $5,000 $45,000 $45,000 $40,000 $40,000 $175,000 Improvements and Community Events E. Inter-Community $- $- $10,000 $15,000 $15,000 $40,000 Pathways Total $390,000 $150,000 $130,000 $130,000 $150,000 $950,000 Anticipated Funding $190,000 $190,000 $190,000 $190,000 $190,000 $950,000
Revenue Shortfalls
The Hotel Room Tax (Resort) transfers are expected to provide approximately $200,000 per year to the Mountain-Valley Community in the initial years. The projects chosen for the RDS will require additional funds to meet revenue shortfalls from the projected funding.
Kinsmen Beach Improvement Program - Construction funding shortfall of $40,000 will be provided by the District of Invermere.
Mountain-Valley Shuttle Service - Shared funding arrangement with $35,000 per year provided by Panorama Mountain Village ($175,000 in total). - Panorama Mountain Village will absorb the additional costs of pre- and post-season use. - Panorama Mountain Village will be responsible for the daily management and coordination of schedule through their Transportation Services Department.
Signage Strategy and Implementation - The remaining costs will be provided by the District of Invermere and partnerships.
7th Avenue Improvements and Community Events - The remaining costs will be provided by the District of Invermere and partnerships.
Inter-Community Trail System - The revenue shortfall for trail construction ($315,000) will be funded through partners such as the District of Invermere, the Regional District of East Kootenay, and local businesses as well as grants. - Funding for the planning and design will be provided by partners and external grant funding opportunities (not part of RDS). - Additional funding for the trail planning components will be applied for through the Columbia River Greenways Alliance and in-kind contributions will be provided by the Columbia River Greenways Alliance Volunteer Board, CRGA Volunteer Board, District of Invermere, Village of Radium, Regional District of East Kootenay, Shuswap Band, and Wildsight.
In addition to the natural increase in Hotel Room Tax (Resort) transfers funding, the Mountain- Valley Community will pursue grant opportunities particularly for the construction of capital components for these projects. Specific grants that will be explored are Community Tourism Program, Canada-BC Building Fund - Communities Component, Cycling Infrastructure Partnerships Program and the BC Real Estate Foundation.
9. PLANNING CONSISTENCY
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To develop vibrant and sustainable communities, it is essential to ensure local planning policy generates a unified vision. Within the District of Invermere, the Official Community Plan includes planning policy. The Regional District of East Kootenay includes planning policy in the Regional Growth Strategy. The policies of the Columbia Basin Trust were also assessed for consistency with the capital and program projects proposed in this strategy.
The RDS complements the vision set forth in the District of Invermere’s Official Community Plan and supports the OCP’s framework which serves to highlight their importance to the community.
The Kinsmen Beach Improvement Program will provide the District of Invermere with a detailed strategy for this public beach. Section 2.5.1 of the OCP cites that the District will continue to service open spaces and promote linkages to other pathways. The Kinsmen Beach Improvement Program will promote connectivity with the central business district and to other pathways while providing ongoing maintenance and resource funding allocation.
The Invermere and Panorama Connectivity Project supports the OCP by encouraging tourism development that delivers an economic benefit to the community and maintains an appropriate balance between the needs of the residents, part-time residents and visitors (Section 2.2.3.1 and Section 2.2.3.2). The connectivity project will offer residents and visitors alike with convenient and scenic linkages between the resort and the town.
The goal of 7th Avenue Public Space (Pothole Park) is to create an attractive environment for all to enjoy. The Downtown Commercial Land Use Policies promote the downtown as the focal point for commercial activity and encourage urban design that reflects the local setting (Section 2.2.1.2 and Section 2.2.1.3). The proposed Community Enhancement Plan highlights the need for improved urban design and the development of a central meeting place. The project will support efforts to improve the vibrancy of downtown and will contribute the creation of a central plaza where events and celebrations can be hosted.
The Radium to Invermere Greenway Project will collaborate with other agencies and community groups to implement a portion of the Columbia River Greenway (Section 2.6.1) and will encourage development of new tourism opportunities that will benefit the community (Section 2.2.3.1).
The report identifies the importance placed on the Community Enhancement Plan; and through this plan the revitalization of Kinsmen Beach and 7th Avenue have been preliminarily identified by the public as priority projects. Further, alternative transportation and trail systems have been highlighted in the both the Annual Report and the Regional Districts of East Kootenay’s Park and Trail Plan. These documents illustrate the District’s long-term interest in developing a trails system linking recreational, tourism and commuter routes. A firm commitment to supporting conservation initiatives and reducing environmental impacts is clearly illustrated by the Environmental Agenda and Action Plan included in the Annual Report. The consistency between the proposed projects and the Annual Report demonstrates that these projects meet the Resort Municipality Initiative’s goal of incrementalism.
The Capital and Program Projects proposed within this RDS support the East Kootenay Regional Growth Strategy by;
Encouraging economic development; Protecting and maintaining access to the District of Invermere’s natural resources; and Promoting a collaborative planning process.
The Columbia Basin Trust was established to create a legacy of social, economic and environmental well-being for the region. The core functions of the Columbia Basin Trust are to invest and manage the assets of the CBT, and to spend the income earned from the investments
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on projects which deliver a lasting legacy for the region. The Capital and Program Project’s proposed support the vision of the CBT by striving to;
Foster the social, environment and economic well-being of the Basin; Establishing collaborative relationships where partnerships are developed to promote community building and local culture; Deliver a healthy natural environment that generates social and economic activities; and Provide an economy that is diverse, resilient and energized.
10. COMMUNICATIONS PLAN
Communication of the RDS is necessary to inform a variety of stakeholders of the objectives and intended results of the Resort Municipality Initiative. The communication strategy involves distributing information to:
General public; RDS stakeholders; ACE (Accessibility group); First Nations; and Partners including Tourism BC, Kootenay Rockies Tourism, Province of BC.
The Communications Plan involves a variety of methods to distribute this information including:
Updates to the local press; Posted information on community bulletin boards; Information provided to community associations; Website updates and web-based chat options; Magazine articles; Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Centres; and Project signs at each project site recognizing the partners.
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APPENDIX A: RESORT PROJECT/PROGRAM CHECKLIST
A. Kinsman Beach Improvement Program
1. Description of Expenditure To improve the quality of the Kinsman Beach experience a. What is being done? Rehabilitate and improve maintenance of beach facilities Improve the connections and access to the beach Provide infrastructure to expand opportunities for festivals and ongoing public entertainment. b. Why is it important? Enhance the experience for visitors and residents alike To improve upon an existing community asset 2. Total Estimated Cost $440,000 (RDS funded components only) a. Capital cost (gross) $300,000 b. Operating Cost $140,000 3. Sources of Funding a. Provincial RDS: $410,000 b. Local Government District of Invermere: $30,000 for construction c. Other 4. Included in Financial Plan In local government financial Yes plan 5. Estimated Start Date 2012 6. Estimated Competition Date 2016 7. Operating Responsibility a. Local Government District of Invermere b. Other (specify) 8. Impacts on Key Outcomes (positive impact on one or more) a. Increase in resort activities Yes b. Increase in visitor traffic Yes c. Increase private investment No d. Increase employment in the No community e. Increase tourism component Yes of the local economy f. Increase municipal tax revenue No g. Diversity municipal tax base No and revenue 7. Comments
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B. Mountain-Valley Shuttle Service
1. Description of Expenditure Creating connections between the District of Invermere and Panorama Mountain Village a. What is being done? Providing a shuttle service between Invermere and Panorama b. Why is it important? To link Panorama Mountain Village to the District of Invermere. This will encourage visitors to explore the town site and Mountain Village by using sustainable transport links. 2 Total Estimated Cost $425,000 i. Capital cost (gross) $0 ii. Operating Cost $425,000 3. Sources of Funding a. Provincial RDS: $175,000 b. Local Government c. Other Panorama Mountain Village: $250,000 4. Included in Financial Plan In local government financial plan Yes 5. Estimated Start Date 2012 6. Estimated Competition Date 2016 7. Operating Responsibility a. Local Government The District of Invermere, Regional District of East Kootenay b. Other (specify) Panorama Mountain Village 8. Impacts on Key Outcomes (positive impact on one or more) a. Increase in resort activities Yes b. Increase in visitor traffic Yes c. Increase private investment No d. Increase employment in the No community e. Increase tourism component of Yes the local economy f. Increase municipal tax revenue Yes g. Diversity municipal tax base and Yes revenue 7. Comments
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C. Sign Strategy and Implementation
1. Description of Expenditure Constructing and Implementing a direction sign strategy a. What is being done? Development of a directional and interpretive signage strategy Construction of directional and interpretive signs throughout the community including Highway 93/95 and Panorama Mountain Village b. Why is it important? To provide adequate signage to guide visitors to tourist amenities and to share local knowledge. 2. Total Estimated Cost $205,000 a. Capital cost (gross) $205,000 b. Operating Cost $0 3. Sources of Funding a. Provincial RDS: $160,000; b. Local Government District of Invermere; Regional District of East Kootenay c. Other Panorama Mountain Village Resort 4. Included in Financial Plan In local government financial Yes plan 5. Estimated Start Date 2012 6. Estimated Competition Date 2016 7. Operating Responsibility a. Local Government b. Other (specify) 8. Impacts on Key Outcomes (positive impact on one or more) a. Increase in resort activities No b. Increase in visitor traffic Yes c. Increase private investment No d. Increase employment in the No community e. Increase tourism component Yes of the local economy f. Increase municipal tax revenue No g. Diversity municipal tax base No and revenue 7. Comments
D. 7th Avenue Public Space and Community Events
1. Description of Expenditure Redeveloping the central downtown core public space and public events.
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a. What is being done? Redesigning a public gathering space along 7th Avenue. Improving the public realm and urban design aesthetics of 7th Avenue. Programming ongoing events to attract more visitors to the downtown core b. Why is it important? To increase festivals and public entertainment opportunities by providing a venue. To improve the overall look of the downtown core, making it more inviting to visitors and residents. 2. Total Estimated Cost $250,000 a. Capital cost (gross) $185,000 b. Operating Cost $40,000 3. Sources of Funding a. Provincial RDS: 185,000 b. Local Government District of Invermere: $50,000 c. Other 4. Included in Financial Plan In local government financial plan Yes 5. Estimated Start Date 2012 6. Estimated Competition Date 2016 7. Operating Responsibility a. Local Government District of Invermere b. Other (specify) 8. Impacts on Key Outcomes (positive impact on one or more) a. Increase in resort activities Yes b. Increase in visitor traffic Yes c. Increase private investment Yes d. Increase employment in the No community e. Increase tourism component of Yes the local economy f. Increase municipal tax revenue Yes g. Diversity municipal tax base and Yes revenue 7. Comments
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E. Inter-Community Trail System
1. Description of Expenditure Creating connections between the District of Invermere, Panorama Mountain Village and the Village of Radium Hot Springs a. What is being done? Developing a trail system between Invermere, Panorama and Radium Hot Springs b. Why is it important? The trail system will be available for visitors and residents alike year-round and will provide increased recreation opportunities. 2. Total Estimated Cost $355,000 i. Capital cost (gross) $355,000 ii. Operating Cost $0 3. Sources of Funding a. Provincial RDS: $55,000; potential transportation and trail system grants b. Local Government District of Invermere; Regional District of East Kootenay c. Other Local businesses 4. Included in Financial Plan In local government financial plan Trail system is part of the Parks and Pathways Master Plan 5. Estimated Start Date 2014 6. Estimated Competition Date 2016 7. Operating Responsibility a. Local Government District of Invermere b. Other (specify) Columbia River Greenways Alliance 8. Impacts on Key Outcomes (positive impact on one or more) a. Increase in resort activities Yes b. Increase in visitor traffic Yes c. Increase private investment No d. Increase employment in the No community e. Increase tourism component of Yes the local economy f. Increase municipal tax revenue No g. Diversity municipal tax base and No revenue 7. Comments
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