Cultus Lake Waterpark will be receiving financial help from the provincial government, sharing in a $36.5 million COVID relief fund.
Money is earmarked to help anchor attractions and tour bus companies in the Chilliwack-Kent region recover from the impact of the pandemic.
“Cultus Lake Waterpark is such a fun destination here in our region, and a great place to make memories with family and friends,” said Kelli Paddon, MLA for Chilliwack-Kent. “Our local tourism businesses suffered so much during the pandemic, and it’s great to see them getting a boost.
“This funding is going to help revive tourist sectors and support local economies, allowing people to make great memories across British Columbia for years to come.”
RELATED: Abbotsford International Airport to receive $720,000 COVID-19 relief subsidy
RELATED: ‘Save the PNE!’: CEO, labour union call on new feds to offer COVID relief
Two other local businesses, West Coast Amusements and First Class Concessions are also receiving aid.
West Coast Amusements is based out of Chilliwack (8094 Lickman Road) and bills itself as Canada’s largest traveling carnival operator “creating smiles and memories since the 60’s.”
First Class Concessions was founded in 2002 by Rob and Tarah Hauser. Rob’s family owns West Coast Amusements and First Class Concessions provides food and game concessions for many West Coast Amusement events in Western Canada, including Vancouver’s Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) and the Calgary Stampede.
Paddon said she is glad that people in the riding will benefit from this funding, as it will not only support people working in tourism but also help grow the local economy into the future.
Organizations can use the grants to pay for rent and utilities, payroll and costs related to restarting or ramping up operations.
The PNE is on the list of funding recipients as well, and you can find the full list of 82 online at news.gov.bc.ca/files/7-23_BCMAA.pdf