New improvements for the RDEK

The Regional District of East Kootenay has been undergoing construction to further improve its head office

1 of 5The construction is well underway, on the new RDEK upgrades. — Rhiannon Chippett photo

2 of 5The project is expected to reach completion in winter of 2012 or early spring of 2013. — Rhiannon Chippett photo

3 of 5The head office is located near Cranbrook's East Kootenay Regional Hospital. — Rhiannon Chippett photo

4 of 5The project staff members are working hard to complete the construction. — Rhiannon Chippett photo

5 of 5The new improvements will enable the RDEK to grow and expand. — Rhiannon Chippett photo

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The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) is responsible for providing and co-ordinating local government services in both urban and rural areas in the East Kootenay region. It covers a zone of 27,560 square kilometres, encompassing communities from the Ryan Bridge (located east of Yahk) to just north of Spillimacheen, and from the Purcell Mountains all the way to the B.C.-Alberta border. Within its six electoral areas, the RDEK was estimated in a 2011 census to boast a total population of 56,655—including municipalities.

The RDEK plays an important role in local issues. Being one of the 28 regional districts that have been created by the B.C. provincial government, it serves to represent  municipal residents when it comes to region-wide issues. It operates out of two separate offices: the Columbia Valley office in Invermere and the head office, which is located in Cranbrook.

The RDEK building in Cranbrook has been undergoing significant changes, and is adding a brand new boardroom. The construction will also include the addition of a larger gallery area.

“The new boardroom will allow for more seating for the public and future expansion of the board table, should that be required,” said Loree Duczek, communications manager for the RDEK. “It will also create additional room in the current building to accommodate our staff.”

The improvements to the building are a step in the right direction, preparing the RDEK for any future growth in staff, board members or public attendance.

Construction began on March 19 of this year, and the project is scheduled for completion by winter 2012 or in the early spring of 2013.

“We are very grateful to the public and the RDEK staff who have been patient during the construction,” said Duczek. “The expansion will provide a wonderful new space and increased access to our meetings, and we are looking forward to the official grand opening in early 2013.”