Investing in Nelson’s future
Nelson's CP rail yard will become a hub for the region's visitors and business investors after the property is restored
The CP rail station building is being refurbished to house a new visitor centre and business opportunity centre. — Colin Payne photo*
The CP Rail Station at the foot of historic Baker Street in Nelson, B.C., has not been left for dead. The Nelson & District Chamber of Commerce is taking on the project of restoring it, and has already invested more than $950,000 into the building. The project is an important part of the City of Nelson's downtown waterfront master plan.
“We have negotiated for a number of years with CP Rail to determine whether it would be financially viable or self-sustaining to take over the property of the Nelson rail yard,” said Tom Thomson, executive director of the Nelson chamber of commerce. “As a result of discussions, we were able to take over the property in July 2010.”
Stakeholders envision that the rail yard will become a full-service regional visitor gateway and business opportunity centre. An interpretive display will showcase the area's opportunities, culture and character.
“We will also have our chamber, our economic development partnership and our destination marketing organization all housed within the building,” said Thomson.
Coming together
In addition, local businesses and artisans will have an opportunity to showcase their products at the gateway. Other private and public organizations will occupy the rest of the building.
“Increasing the size and the visibility of the visitors centre will help all the tourism stakeholders in the community," said Thomson. "There is always a spinoff to all the other businesses in Nelson—this is very positive. We feel that the centre will enhance our tourist component and in turn lead to visitors investing in the community."
Preserving a piece of history
Apart from these benefits, Thomson pointed out, a treasured landmark will be restored. CP Rail has held economic significance in the Nelson area, and the building's architecture is important. The building alone will draw new cultural tourist traffic to the region.
Thomson said the chamber proactively works on business attraction, retention and expansion strategies. A business opportunity centre is a logical extension of this vital business role.
He said that investing in the regional visitor gateway project shows a strong commitment to the Nelson community.
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