One of the region's small airports is getting some key renovations.
The Fraser Lake Airport, located close to the village's downtown, has received a funding grant of $171,394 from Northern Development Initiative Trust. According to NDIT, the money will be spent on new signage, security fencing, and an on-site mobile home, which will be used as an office.
NDIT spokesman Joel McKay said the granting agency's board saw the upgrades as a way to "position the community to better capitalize on nearby resource industry and tourism opportunities."
The current airport has a 4,000-foot paved runway but pilots expressed to village council their reluctance to use the strip due to lack of security.
"The upgrades will allow pilots to leave their planes at a manned and secure airport, allowing them to visit and conduct business in the Fraser Lake area, ultimately leading to more landings and increased use of the village's services," said McKay.
The NDIT contribution represents 70 per cent of the project's cost, the remainder being paid by the Village of Fraser Lake. The municipality is also looking ahead at additional upgrades like a fueling station and lighting for night flying.
"The Village of Fraser Lake is well-positioned along the Highway 16 corridor to take advantage of the many energy and mining projects slated for our region, as well as the fantastic hunting and fishing opportunities the central interior already boasts," said Village of Fraser Lake Mayor Dwayne Lindstrom.
