Ripe with opportunity

Creston offers the best of tourism, affordability and economic stability

The vibe in downtown Creston is indicative of its community spirit. — Phil Best photo

The Creston Valley has a great deal to offer new and established business people, and plenty of potential left to be reached. Jim Jacobsen, executive director of the Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce, identified several reasons why this blossoming community is a prime locale.

Get a fresh start

Jacobsen pointed out three main benefits to starting a business in Creston: stability, location and affordability.

"Creston has a very diverse economy, i.e. not reliant on one natural resource," he said. "We also have a growing agriculture sector, tourism, retirement, mining and retail."

Creston's proximity to the United States border is another key selling point, Jacobsen noted, and the lifestyle offered in Creston is enviable due to its mild climate and outdoor recreation spots—such as Kootenay Lake—within a short drive from town. Property costs are relatively low, making it an ideal spot to settle down, and build a future.

An expanding community

Creston is in the midst of changes that will redefine the town and its economic stature. This includes some new branding and marketing strategies that the chamber is embracing with the help of the popular Story and Co. branding agency.

"We are also working on the development of a downtown hub as a community gathering place," said Jacobsen. "The area will include walking trails, market areas, interpretive stations and tourist information. A new hotel, the Ramada Inn, is slated to open in the spring. We are working on an expanded shop local campaign including promoting the 10 per cent solution."
 
The visitor's centre is an informational focal point in town, and the staff there make sure to promote the current events and opportunities offered throughout the year. Their new electronic sign helps keep visitors and residents aware of local happenings, and representatives attend festivals and trade shows in other communities to promote Creston as a travel destination.

"We have been working closely with the Food Action Coalition on promoting the farm market and the local food movement. Creston is home to the '10-mile diet,' " said Jacobsen. "We had success working with the local art community promoting the Art Walk and we helped with the creation of a new bus art tour. Our award-winning physician recruitment program is also an important economic development tool."

Goals for the future

Jacobsen has high hopes for Creston, with a number of goals that he would like to see reached. These include working with the Town of Creston and Regional District of Central Kootenay to support agri-tourism and economic development—but this is only the beginning.

"Completing the branding strategy is huge," said Jacobsen. "(Also) our Home and Garden Trade Show happens April 20th and 21st. My goal is to sell out for the eighth consecutive year. We want to have a plan in place for the downtown hub and a permanent home for the Farmers Market. I am working with Kootenay Rockies Tourism and Tourism BC on getting Creston included on a media writers tour in 2012. We are also in discussions with an agriculture tour company to have their annual tour bus travel through the Creston Valley to experience our agriculture sector."