One of the most recognizable legacy structures from British Columbia's Expo 86 World's Fair will soon undergo repairs on its leaky roof as part of a $50-million tourism infrastructure fund.
Premier David Eby says the domed roof of Vancouver's Science World building is leaking, which prevents the popular tourist destination from using the movie theatre.
He says the $50 million will support 90 tourism infrastructure projects across B.C., including cycling trails in Delta, cultural signs supporting the Taltan Central Government storytelling and a project to improve visitor responsibility on mountain bike trails. Projects on Vancouver Island include sleep barrels in Cumberland, a Craigflower tourism and community centre, and development of Nanaimo's Stadium District.
Eby says the $20 million for Science World will focus on the roof, but that will also include electrical updates to improve energy efficiency.
Tourism Minister Lana Popham says the last three years have been incredibly difficult for the industry and the investment will support those who work in tourism and sustain a recovery after the pandemic's restrictions.
Tracy Redies, Science World CEO, says the building is in need of other infrastructure repairs and a public fundraising campaign to help cover expected costs will soon be announced.
"Science World and its iconic dome is important to so many British Columbians and it's been a feature of the skyline for decades," Eby said at a news conference at Science World. "Unfortunately, right now Science World is facing some challenges."
On Vancouver Island, 11 projects will receive a combined $6.6 million:
- Campbell River Cycle Club dba River City Cycle Club — Snowden Forest Recreational Trail Enhancement and Accessibility Upgrade Project — $757,926
- Campbellton Neighbourhood Association — River Route Parks trail completion — $986,429
- City of Nanaimo — Stadium District Development — $1 million
- Cortes Island Community Foundation — Cortes Island Village Commons Development — $460,000
- Cumberland Lake Park Society — Sleeping barrels: Campground expansion & diversification — $203,370
- District of Ucluelet — Accessible Washroom Development Project — $340,000
- Duncan Cowichan Chamber of Commerce — Visitor Centre HVAC install — $55,000
- Pheidias Consulting Association — King George Hotel Rehabilitation — $997,000
- The Boulders Climbing Gym — Climbing Gym Rejuvenation to tournament ready — $1 million
- Toquaht Nation — Secret Beach Visitor Amenities – Playground and Outdoor Exercise Equipment — $500,000
- Victoria Highland Games Association — Craigflower Tourism and Community Centre — $325,000
— With a file from the Times Colonist
This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 25, 2023.
