New design transforms a central gathering place into an accessible, vibrant hub honouring ʼNa̱mg̱is cultural heritage
ʼNa̱mg̱is Territory, Alert Bay, DATE – Alert Bay’s newly rejuvenated Town Square will transform the community hub into an accessible, welcoming space celebrating the region’s culture and strengthening the local economy.
The redesigned plaza reflects a collaborative effort between the Village of Alert Bay and the ʼNa̱mg̱is First Nation and will transform a deteriorated, underutilized space into a vibrant, inclusive gathering place where culture, community, and connection can thrive.
“This project has been an incredibly rewarding opportunity for partnership between the Nation and the Village,” said Victor Isaac, ʼNa̱mg̱is First Nation Chief. “We’re extremely proud of the final design and excited to share our cultural heritage with all those who visit this beautiful space.”
“By working together to renew our Town Square, we have created a centrepiece our communities will treasure for generations,” said Lyle McNish, Chief Administrative Officer for the Village. “The central waterfront location makes Alert Bay’s stunning views accessible to all and for guests and residents alike, this will be an excellent place to gather.”
The new design features:
- Sustainable and accessible infrastructure: solar-powered lighting, irrigation, accessible benches and picnic tables.
- Landscaping with cultural meaning: native plants and salmon insets.
- Interpretive and cultural features: storyboard signage and a large map of ʼNa̱mg̱is territory.
The Square provides space for weekly vendor markets, public gatherings, and cultural events, and is situated in a central, walkable location adjacent to key community services. It is host to annual Canada Day and Christmas events, along with a weekly local vendor market that also runs when cruise ships are docked.
The project will allow for the expansion of 10 businesses, one social enterprise, and involves six local partnerships, while creating three temporary jobs. It also creates inclusive opportunities by improving accessibility for people with disabilities, providing low-barrier income opportunities, and supporting the economic livelihoods of local entrepreneurs who lack access to permanent retail space.
“The revitalization of Alert Bay’s Town Square is a powerful example of community placemaking in action — a collaborative effort that brings people together to shape a shared, vibrant future,” said Brodie Guy, CEO of Island Coastal Economic Trust. “This project strengthens both the cultural vitality and economic resilience of the community, creating a welcoming public space that residents can connect with and enjoy for generations.”
Island Coastal Economic Trust is partnering with the Village of Alert Bay with a $40,000 investment in the new Town Square through the Community Placemaking Program. The project will see just over $268,000 invested into the local economy. The Trust invested in this project in line with its Investment Priority of Entrepreneurs and Local Businesses.
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About Island Coastal Economic Trust
Island Coastal Economic Trust is the regional development organization founded by the Province of British Columbia under the North Island-Coast Development Initiative Trust Act to serve Vancouver Island and the surrounding coast. We partner with First Nations, local governments, businesses, and non-profits to drive prosperity and diversify the coastal economy through strategic economic investments. Over $407 million in direct new investment has been attracted to coastal B.C. through our partnerships since 2006. We believe that meaningful and lasting change is best achieved through strong, collaborative partnerships that unite people, communities, sectors, and resources. As we work toward inclusive and resilient economic futures, we do so with a deep appreciation for the histories, contributions, and rights of the Kwak̓wala/Bakwam’kala, Nuučaa̓nuɫ, Éy7á7juuthem, Ligwilda’xw, Pəntl’áč, She shashishalhem, Hul’q’umi’num’, diitiidʔaatx̣, SENĆOŦEN, Skwxwú7mesh, Lekwungen, and T’Sou-ke speaking peoples.
The Trust’s mandate has been to support economic diversification and growth across Vancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast, and islands and inlets from the Salish Sea to Cape Caution (see Our Region). Serving more than half a million residents, the Trust partners with communities in the development and financing of their economic Infrastructure and diversification efforts through a unique structure that is led by and accountable to communities.
Media Contacts:
Kyle Wells
Manager, Communications and Impact
Island Coastal Economic Trust
kyle@islandcoastaltrust.ca
250-871-7797
Lyle McNish
CAO
Corporation of the Village of Alert Bay
cao@alertbay.ca
250-974-5213
