Ministry of Transportation & Infrastructure has announced the Long Beach Airport is set to receive $1.27 million in funding from the new BC Air Access Program.

UCLUELET - TOFINO, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA, August 11, 2015 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Long Beach Airport is set to receive $1.27 million in funding from the new B.C. Air Access Program as a part of the Government of B.C.’s 10-year transportation plan.

"This is a game changing announcement for Ucluelet and Long Beach Airport. The Airport is shared with Tofino, and for our communities to get a million plus runway upgrade to provide 24hr lighting is massive. The investment is going to dramatically improve accessibility and safety for residents and tourists visiting the area. It’s a major vote of confidence for our outstanding Ucluelet – Tofino tourism economy by the Province. The Province is investing in the Pacific Rim and helping bring our experience to the world!" said Tracy Eeftink, Chair of Tourism Ucluelet.

"This is not a small announcement. Further economic growth in the region will be dramatically stimulated by accommodating larger aircrafts and more frequent flights; supporting the continued growth of local and provincial economies. The funding will allow Ucluelet, Tofino and the surrounding areas to make crucial improvements to their infrastructure for continued growth of our region," said Sally Mole, Executive Director of Ucluelet’s Chamber of Commerce.

Over the next three years, the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure will invest almost $2.5 billion to improve British Columbia’s transportation network, and The Alberni- Clayoquot Regional District, which owns and operates the airport, will contribute just over $424,000 toward the project.

The improvements will also allow for enhanced emergency health care services to the area. Ucluelet Mayor Dianne St Jacques added, "This funding is exceptional and such a huge sign of amazing things to come for Ucluelet, Tofino and The Pacific Rim area. It will finally make it possible for the airport to be open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week which can mean the life saving air-transport access during emergencies when people need to be flown out to larger hospital facilities. It is vital for our communities."

Other improvements expected as a result of the infusion of funds are upgraded navigational systems, terminal building expansion, and runway enhancements.


Learn more:

Tourism Ucluelet: http://www.discoverucluelet.com

Ucluelet: http://www.ucluelet.ca

Information on BC Transportation Plan is available online at: http://engage.gov.bc.ca/transportationplan/

For information on BC Air Access Program, go to: http://www.gov.bc.ca/BCAirAccessProgram



Press release courtesy of Online PR Media: http://bit.ly/1JSGSvS

Denise Stys-Norman
Tourism Ucluelet
250-266-7620
email us here

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