Tourism Prince George (TPG) is moving ahead with plans to activate the Canada Games Plaza with an open-air container market, year-round skating rink and seating.
The project will be constructed alongside the renovation of the Visitor Information Centre (VIC) at the rotunda beside the Prince George Conference and Civic Centre.
The container market will provide the opportunity for local vendors, artisans, producers and entrepreneurs to rent out the space to sell their goods or services during multi-day conferences, events and festivals.
“We look forward to the growth that this new venture will bring for small businesses to connect directly with tourists, visitors and residents,” said Colin Carson, TPG CEO.
In addition, the plans to implement a year-round, faux-ice skating rink, seating and lights will bring vibrancy and a place to share community culture with visitors.
“We see this activation of the Canada Games Plaza as an enhancement to the downtown and a way to drive interest and traffic to the area, which will also benefit neighbouring local businesses,” Carson added. This project will be made possible through grants and TPG reserves.
On May 8 Northern Development Initiative Trust released that TPG has been approved for a $300,000 grant towards the VIC relocation and Container Market. “The grant funding is a great outcome and we are so pleased to hear this news,” said Andy Beesley, City of Prince George’s Director, Civic Facilities and Events. “The City is pleased to continue working closely with Tourism Prince George on enhancing visitor information services in our community."
“This funding from NDIT is extremely welcome,” said Carson. “We’re thankful to have received this grant.” Earlier this year, TPG also received $20,000 funding from Prince George Community Foundation and Spruce Credit Union’s Legacy Grant. “We are excited to share about more grant funding as they become realized,” added Carson.
The Container Market will start with one unit where visitor services will operate out of, while renovations are underway. To stay updated please visit tourismpg.com
