ICET: | $555,500 |
Community Adjustment Fund: | $1,115,000 |
Coast Sustainability Trust: | $250,000 |
Comox Valley Regional District: | $14,500 |
Mt. Washington Resort: | $250,000 |
2010 Legacies Now: | $20,000 |
Province of BC: | $175,000 |
Fundraising: | $16,961 |
Loan: | $522,974 |
Total Budget: | $2,919,935 |
The economic output of the centre has been calculated at $7 million in the first year (construction), with operation years starting at $1.3 million.
Mt. Washington is a significant attraction for tourists on Vancouver Island, and it is an asset enjoyed by residents. Economic activity generated by both groups is an important part of the regional economy.
Outdoor enthusiasts visiting Mount Washington and the Strathcona Provincial Park did not have a central location to assemble and learn about the alpine activities available in the region. There was a need for a facility that could accommodate education camps, school retreats and mountain athlete training programs. In addition, the 2010 Olympic Games created an opportunity to attract international athletes to train at Mount Washington creating additional exposure for the region and its attractions. Consequently, the Vancouver Island Mountain Sports Society set out to create a unique destination experience in the region, aiming to attract international athletes, competitions and media attention to the region, while at the same time leaving behind an economic development legacy for the community, athletes and other user groups.
The Vancouver Island Mountain Centre was constructed adjacent to the Raven Lodge, cross country ski trails and access to Strathcona Provincial Park wilderness trails. The fully accessible centre has ten dormitory-style rooms, one with four wheelchair-accessible beds. The Centre can accommodate groups of up to 40 people. The large hostel style commercial kitchen and dining room can entertain fifty people. Fitness facilities promoting Fitness for Life education provides resources for community members of all ages and fitness levels to develop their abilities. The centre showcases the cultural heritage of the region and displays the work of local artists.
With direct access Mount Washington cross country ski trails and biathlon centre, the Mountain Centre, completed in 2009, has served as a premiere sport tourism amenity. It has already been used several times as a staging area for international biathlon events, IPC International Paralympic cross country skiing championships as well as a training camp venue for international athletes, national cross country and biathlon ski teams as well as local and regional teams.The centre also serves as a staging area for alpine access in Strathcona Provincial Park, community group retreats and courses, multi sport camps, outdoor education seminars and special events.