MP David Wilks announces $37.5 to modernize BC ports of entry - Rykerts & Waneta included.

Investments will be used to replace and modernize aging ports of entry in B.C.

MP David Wilks announces a $37.5 million investment to improve infrastructure and modernize BC ports of entry. — Photo courtesy Selkirk Loop Tourism

Member of Parliament David Wilks, on behalf of Steven Blaney, Canada’s Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, today announced the Harper Government will invest an estimated $37.5 million to improve infrastructure in British Columbia including the Rykerts and Waneta ports of entry. This investment is part of the $440 million in infrastructure funding announced in November 2014 by Prime Minister Harper to replace aging ports of entry across Canada.

The infrastructure investment includes design finalization, site services, geotechnical and environmental assessments, as well as modular building construction, including structural, mechanical, electrical, internal fit-up, commissioning, project management and signage. Construction work is planned to begin as early as 2017.

The $440 million border infrastructure investment, combined with previous Beyond the Border infrastructure commitments, provides a huge boost to upgrade ports of entry. The majority of Canadian ports of entry will be fully upgraded or replaced with modern facilities, consistent with the Canada Border Services Agency’s efforts towards modernization.

This is over and above the $241 million that the Harper Government has already invested in expanding and modernizing its ports of entry over the last five years.

New and modern facilities will help meet new space demands due to recent operational requirements. Improvements to facilities will help ensure our small, remote and medium ports of entry will continue to deliver service excellence to travellers and traders.

Key Quotes

“Improvements to port of entry facilities help ensure the free flow of legitimate travel and trade across Canadian borders. Our commitment to invest $440 million in border infrastructure to modernize ports of entry demonstrates our government’s ongoing commitment to the safety and prosperity of our country.”

The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness

“By investing in border infrastructure at the Rykerts and Waneta ports of entry, the Harper Government is helping support the economy in British Columbia.”

MP David Wilks, Kootenay-Columbia