Opportunities
Economic Development Opportunities
Several specific economic development opportunities for Coldwater were identified in 2009 as part of an Economic Development Study carried out by Community Futures. To date, we have been in discussions with several local and regional businesses interested in partnering on these projects. Economic development opportunities identified in the 2009 document include:
Comstock Road
Located between the two main highway interchanges leading to our community and Merritt, the road can be accessed from the Coquihalla Highway 5 and provides “back door” access to one of our industrial zoned properties. Recent improvements have been completed at the minor interchange at Comstock Road. Recommended development and improvement projects for this area include:
- An Interpretive Centre sharing and celebrating First Nations cultural activities;
- A seasonal concession stand selling local First Nations crafts and food products;
- A small-scale RV campground;
- A public rest area for visitors; and
- Access for light industrial operations directly to the Coquihalla Highway.
Comstock Industrial Park – Potential Expansion
The existing industrial area may be expanded in the future through a land designation process currently underway. 21 acres of land split among three lots have already been surveyed as part of this process. This designation and its connections to the Coquihalla Highway and Coldwater Road makes it an ideal location for the expansion of existing manufacturing operations and, potentially, the development of retail outlets. An expanded industrial park at Comstock Road could include a range of uses such as the following:
- Light Manufacturing, processing, finishing and packaging;
- Sale, rental and repair of tools and small equipment;
- Automotive and truck repair shop, including body repair and painting;
- Storage buildings, warehousing and wholesale establishments; packing and crating, cold storage; and
- An Office, storage building, workshop and yard for a general contractor and a trade contractor
Gateway 286
The proposed Gateway 286 project is an ongoing development opportunity being considered by Coldwater Indian Band and neighbouring First Nations. This economic development opportunity is situated on prime real estate at Exit 286 of the Coquihalla Highway – a highly visible, well-travelled crossroads between the cities of Merritt, Kamloops, Kelowna and Vancouver, and a true “gateway”. Proposed developments for the Gateway 286 area include:
- The expansion of the current Visitor’s Centre, including the addition of an Interpretive Centre;
- Seasonal retail of beef, salmon, fruit and other traditional First Nations foods;
- A medicinal plant and vegetable garden and sales outlet;
- A restaurant and food concessions;
- A gas station;
- Retail stores;
- Hotel/motel;
- Tourism destinations; and
- Family recreation/resorts.
