The City of Terrace was thrust into the national spotlight last week as Prime Minister Mark Carney stepped onto Terrace soil to announce the second round of “nation-building projects.”
It marked the first time in years that a Prime Minister visited the community, bringing with him a series of major energy, infrastructure, and economic proposals aimed at reshaping the future of Northwestern B.C.
Terrace Mayor Sean Bujtas, who attended the announcement, said he wasn’t surprised by the prime minister’s announcement but welcomed the federal government’s renewed focus on the North.
“I don’t know very much of the announcement was very surprising. I’m glad that he’s looking at supporting projects in Northwest BC, and I’m glad that Northwest BC is starting to see some real attention from higher levels of government.”
Bujtas said the North Coast Transmission Line has the potential to spark new economic activity throughout the region, connecting major projects in the Golden Triangle and Kitimat. He noted the development could bring jobs and growth, but also significant challenges if Terrace is left without the support needed to handle the impacts.
“We’re all industry towns, but we cannot allow Terrace to be ignored when all these projects happen. They need to be supported by higher levels of government to make sure infrastructure needs are met and we’re not in a position where we’re left behind.”
Bujtas said the projects tied to the transmission line could lead to more people choosing to live in Terrace while working at nearby industrial sites, which would add further pressure to the city’s already stretched housing market. He noted that without additional help, Terrace will struggle to keep up with the increased demand that comes with regional growth.
“What we’re going to see is more people wanting to live in Terrace when they’re working in these camp settings, so they’re closer to home,” he said. “That just creates more support that we’ll need from the province to make sure that we have the housing needs met.”
Bujtas also had a short conversation with Carney during the prime minister’s visit. While brief, he said Carney appeared to understand the pressures facing the city and the role Terrace will play in supporting major provincial and federal economic strategies.
“He said, ‘Make Terrace strong.’ Now I’ve got a job to do, and that is to hold him accountable to that comment.”
Bujtas said he expects further discussions with federal and provincial officials as planning around the transmission line and related projects continues. For now, he said the city will continue pushing for the support it needs to prepare for the growth tied to the Prime Minister’s announcement, and ensure Terrace is positioned to benefit rather than be strained by the changes ahead.
