Squamish Nation has announced ambitious plans to develop 350 acres of its land reserves in BC, including 55 acres in Squamish. This includes Stawamus Reserve 24, west of the Sea to Sky Highway, across from Valley Drive, and a smaller property on the east side of the highway, where the nation runs the gas station. There are also plans to develop land on Site B.
Details are thin on what kind of development will take shape on these 55 aces, but Squamish Nation says it could be a mix of residential, commercial or industrial with public amenities such as parks, schools, community centres and health care clinics.
In total, Squamish Nation wants to develop 350 acres of land in BC, with 111 acre of it on the North Shore, followed by Squamish and Gibsons. In a press release, the nation said the project will open the door to socio-economic growth in a way that reflects Squamish values, culture, and worldview.
“The Squamish Nation is ready to set the direction for the future of many of our lands in the Lower Mainland, Sunshine Coast, and Sea to Sky Corridor,” says Khelsilem, Council Chairperson, Squamish Nation. “For the next year, our government, affordable housing provider, and development corporation will work with our people to build community capital plans that meet our community’s needs and an economic land use strategy to deliver it.”
On Wednesday, Squamish Nation Council also announced a moratorium on any third-party proposals for development on these lands for one year. This temporary pause will enable Squamish Nation, its development corporation Nch’ḵay̓, and its affordable housing provider, Hiy̓ám̓ Housing, to develop land use strategies. An Expression of Interest has been issued to identify consultants with experience in land use and master planning, and to develop a long range capital plan aligned with Squamish Nation goals, said Mindy Wight, CEO of Nch’ḵay̓ . “The successful parties will help the Squamish Nation, Nch’ḵay̓ and Hiy̓ ám̓ Housing work with our community to develop a strategy for these lands – one that maximizes the potential financial value and community benefit.”
