It was with great interest the news of the possible major construction project by FortisBC was absorbed of late.
Local governments and the business communities in countless communities across the country are continually working toward just such an arrangement like the one proposed by the utility company (See story on page A1.)
A $16 million project for a regional operations centre has been pitched to a community which has long prided itself as the “Crossroads of the Kootenays.” If there was ever any disputing that municipal description, a gleaming new fixture totalling more than 40,000 square feet would make a very strong statement in it’s favour.
The idea just seems to have a lot going for it.
Then again, the folks with the biggest reasons for being interested in whether the project goes ahead, or not, are those living near the intended site at 120 Ootischenia Road. Their lives are the ones which would face disruption during the construction phase and beyond.
FortisBC has indicated a level of tact and sensitivity in the matter, expressing a desire to communicate first with those most affected before raising too much fanfare.
An open house on the topic is coming up on August 29, watch for details in next week’s edition of the Castlegar News.