Decision-making around economic growth in the Columbia Basin Boundary region will soon be easier, thanks to a new project now underway. The newly-launched Columbia Basin Boundary Employment Lands Inventory Project will directly address an issue faced by many communities: access to land to accommodate existing business expansion and future investment and economic growth.

The project defines employment lands as lands that generate economic wealth, including: agricultural lands; lands zoned or designated for heavy industry, light industry and commercial (non-retail); First Nations designated employment lands; brown and greyfield sites; and Crown lands available for development.

A better understanding of the availability and type of employment lands will help the region to retain and attract businesses and investment, says Gay. This information is a key tool to ensuring economic growth, and helping to create and retain jobs. 

In addition to providing a comprehensive inventory of employment lands, the project is expected to build regional collaboration that will help develop solutions to shape future growth.

In the long term, the inventory is expected to help make the region more attractive to investors, build business retention and expansion and help communities make more informed planning decisions.