First Nation signs deal to transform former tourist centre into highway hub

The five Nicola Valley First Nations have announced a development agreement for the Gateway 286 project near Merritt, calling it a ‘major milestone’ in the redevelopment of the former tourist information centre at the confluence of the Coquihalla Highway and Okanagan Connector.

In a news release issued Tuesday (Jan. 9), the First Nations company Spayum Holdings announced the deal with Kelowna-based developer Troika Management.

The agreement lays the foundation for the construction of a 30,000-square-foot commercial complex including restaurants, convenience stores, a gas station, dog park, and what is touted to be “western Canada’s largest electric vehicle charging station.”

The complex will incorporate design elements that reflect the history and culture of Nicola Valley First Nations.

In addition, the deal will lead to economic and employment opportunities for members of the five bands.

Three years after the tourist information centre was closed in 2018, the province transferred the land to Spayum Holdings, which represents the Upper Nicola, Lower Nicola, Coldwater, Shakan and Nooaitch bands.

Ground was broken for the new project in March 2022. Site works and design have been taking place since then, and Spayum says construction is expected to begin next summer.

“The five bands… have waited 30 years to realize the return of their traditional lands and the development of those lands into an exceptional commercial development,” said Lower Nicola Chief Stuart Jackson. “Gateway 286 will provide employment and revenue to our five communities and in addition, this development will provide a vital transportation hub for all the east and west bound traffic on Highway 5A.”

Troika Managment is a development company founded 25 years ago by Kelowna-Mission MLA Renee Merrifield.