CFUR spoke with University of Northern British Columbia’s (UNBC) Manager of Business Development, Claudia Barreira, after her presentation to a March 23rd City of Prince George Council meeting alongside UNBC President, Bill Owen for the UNBC District residential project within the UNBC Land Trust. While the presentation went well, the housing project has been evolving since the University’s 2018 Campus Master Plan: Destination 2040 (pg.87).

The UNBC District proposes to use approximately 35 of the Land Trust’s 47 acres located on the opposite side of University Way from UNBC’s main entrance, and develop the community over the next 10-20 years. Making space for students, faculty, administration and professionals are among the goals along with improving the sense of community on campus. The project would require a large investment but should generate revenue in the long term. Barreira noted UNBC’s need for creativity pursuing revenue and sustainability, “We are exploring many pathways with the Province, and for that we need engagement from the community. That’s why we went to the city council and said, ‘Hey, we may drive this if the Province agrees with the project and the vision. What do you think?’”

When asked about the differentiation between this housing development and others along Tyner Boulevard beyond the inclusion of mixed use units Barreira suggested, “For a private developer, they don’t see the sense of community impact in the region. They see the profit they will take.” She clarified, “Yes we’ll work with private developers, but this is our vision, and if you buy in the vision, you are our partner. If you don't, we'll find other partners.” In her final appeal Barreida encouraged further conversation related to this multi-year project, “I hope we keep this conversation, and that we can just explain parts of the project, and explain how the community, and the student community, and the faculty community, can be involved in this project.”

- Ian Gregg, CFURadio 88.7FM, Due North News, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter