With the northwest town of Kitimat prepared for one of the largest industrial expansions in the history of Northern B.C., a University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) geography professor is poised to help the community make its transition.
In 2007, Dr. Greg Halseth, a nationally-recognized leader in the study of rural and small town community change, facilitated a community-planning dialogue to prepare for Kitimat's proposed smelter rebuild.
Next week he'll revisit that plan, with the newly announced Rio Tinto Alcan project in mind.
Rio Tinto Alcan just announced a massive expansion and investment in the town of Kitimat. The $3.3 billion US modernization will secure about 1,000 long-term jobs, and 2,500 jobs during the construction period.
There will be two developmental phases - construction and operations - each with unique circumstances to consider.
"Although the immediate reaction of many to this investment is excitement, I recommend that communities approach such announcements with a critical eye," said Halseth.
"Kitimat has been a major manufacturing centre in the province for more than 50 years now. This investment by Rio Tinto Alcan secures that role for decades yet to come.
"However, with massive investment comes both opportunities and challenges."
Halseth's work will be aided by his research at UNBC's Community Development Institute, which he founded.
"There has been an ongoing transformation of Northern British Columbia's communities through population changes, economic transitions, and industry investments," Halseth said.
"Research through the Community Development Institute helps inform these communities, which, in turn, can help them prepare and make good decisions based on their
situations.
"It is important to use such opportunities to develop the infrastructure and capacity needed to harness local and regional assets so they fit with community aspirations for a resilient future."
