Feds announce $10 million for Science World upgrades in Vancouver

Science World is getting $10 million in funding from the federal government.

The money is from the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan) and will support renovations, improvements, and mechanical upgrades.

Harjit Sajjan, the minister responsible for the agency, says the investment in Science World will help create over 150 jobs.

The federal government also hopes it’ll help attract more visitors.

Harjit Sajjan in Vancouver on Monday October 24th, 2022. (CityNews Image)

“Having this world class centre for science and technology, education in our province is something that we all take a lot of pride in,” Sajjan said Monday. “Over the last three decades, Science World has grown to become one of the largest tourism attractions in British Columbia. And it is a significant contributor to our local economy. Now through its outreach program, Science World touches students, teachers, and especially families in every region of British Columbia.”

Related articles:

• Vancouver tourism industry sees rebound but not back to pre-pandemic levels
• Science World possibly facing temporary closure as revenues fall amid pandemic
  

  ---

COVID-19 recovery

As COVID-19 affected many aspects of life, Science World has been no exception.

The facility was closed for months, then forced to operate at reduced capacity for quite some time.

“Science World was hit extra hard by the pandemic. And in March 2020, the centre closed its doors for four and a half months to ensure the safety of its visitors and its staff,” Sajjan said.

“But today, we’re looking ahead. And although COVID-19 is still among us, we’re building back stronger than ever. The government of Canada knows that a vibrant tourism industry benefits all of us. Tourist attractions like Science World provide locals and tourists alike an experience to learn, explore, discover, and imagine.”

“The Canadian tourism sector continues to be one of the most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic,” Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance Randy Boissonnault said in a statement. “We will work with businesses and organizations through these challenging times, ensuring they get support to innovate in their products and services.”