Bilous announces money for local projects, vows TMP will be built, during GP stop

Four projects in the Peace are among 62 across Alberta to be granted funding under the provincial government’s Community and Regional Economic Support Program (CARES).
 
That includes $90,300 to The Van Horne Institute for a study that would look at rail transportation and a possible container terminal in the Peace, $35,000 to the Grande Prairie Regional Tourism Association to help come up with a destination management plan, $37,687 to the City of Grande Prairie to develop a strategy to attract cannabis-related businesses, and $17,500 to the Town of Valleyview for a community broadband master plan.
 
Economic Development and Trade Minister Deron Bilous says there is “incredible potential” to grow tourism in the Peace.
 
“This funding will help design, develop a tourism strategy. It makes sense as far as building on a strength here in northwestern Alberta, also building on our government’s priorities of diversifying the economy.”
 
Bilous thinks the railroad study will bring about more ideas on how to expand trade.
 
He announced the projects during a Monday stop in Grande Prairie, where he also spoke about the 2018 budget and the Trans Mountain Pipeline dispute. Bilous repeated a threat to turn off oil exports to B.C.
 
“Premier Notley has been resolute in her commitment. She has been not just a champion but is now showing that she’s a fighter as well. We’re not afraid to do whatever it takes to ensure that project moves forward, including taking an equity stake in the pipeline.”
 
More on shutting down exports could come very soon.
 
“I can’t give timelines as far as when that may (happen), but we’re expecting to introduce the legislation this week.”