Woodfibre LNG says it has hired a construction contractor with strong links to Squamish Nation to conduct crucial work at Swíy’at (the Woodfibre site).
“Woodfibre LNG is pleased to be advancing remediation work at our site,” said company president Christine Kennedy. “We are following through on our commitment to prioritize local benefits and minimize impacts. Selecting Graham Construction signals our intention to fulfil that commitment through construction and into operations.”
This current phase of work involves the final stages of cleaning-up the previous pulp and paper mill at the Woodfibre site. In operation for nearly 100 years, the mill left behind significant infrastructure that needs to be assessed and decommissioned to ensure safety and environmental compliance.
Graham Construction, a Canadian company endorsed by Squamish Nation, will conduct onshore work. Graham has been contracted to manage clean-up, including the removal and recycling of old concrete, rebar, and rail ties. A major undertaking of Graham’s activities will be closing the mill’s landfill, which will involve containing affected soil and groundwater and planting it over with vegetation.
Graham is committed to bringing local benefits for Squamish Nation members and Squamish residents. The company aims to hire local suppliers, including (but not limited to) the use of Squamish vendors for barging, water taxi, waste bins, surveying, and vacuum trucks. Graham will also provide hiring priority for construction labourers and equipment operator positions to Squamish Nation members and Squamish residents.
“This important project is an exciting example of a long-term collaboration between Nch’ kay Development Corporation and Graham. We are proud to contribute to the rich and resilient culture of Squamish Nation,” said Cecil Dawe, Graham’s Executive Vice President of Industrial. “Graham has been serving the resource sector for decades and we look forward to applying our expertise to this phase of Woodfibre LNG.”
Woodfibre LNG’s current phase of work is expected to continue until late summer 2023. At peak, there will be no more than 50 workers at site, and measurable impacts on housing or traffic (road and marine) are not anticipated. Individuals working at site live in Squamish, will stay in local hotels, or will commute from Vancouver’s North Shore.
Squamish residents or businesses interested in working on the Woodfibre LNG project can apply by sending a resume to careers@wlng.ca or by registering in our business directory at https://woodfibrelng.ca/careers/business-directory/
