BC Hydro's $2.5-mill reno of Castlegar offices nearing completion
By Kyra Hoggan
BC Hydro is nearing completion of their $2.5-million renovation of their offices, according to spokeswoman Mary Anne Coules, who said the project is expected to be completed on schedule by April of this year.
“We are currently upgrading the interior of our Castlegar field office in order to extend the life of our building. The current building has reached end of life,” Coules explained. “The interior finishings are all being upgraded to meet current standards, and the electrical and mechanical systems are being replaced to meet current building code requirements. We are also removing hazardous material from the building, including asbestos and lead paint.”
She said work began in October to upgrade the building at 601 18 Street, across from Dairy Queen.
“During construction, we are working out of a temporary office space in downtown Castlegar. We expect to move back in to our permanent location in April.”
Asked why they're willing to invest so much in their Castlegar facility, Coules said it's the home for vital administration for huge regional undertakings.
“Ensuring that our Castlegar office a safe and healthy environment for our local staff is critical for the work we do in the region,” she said. “Our office is home to 14 employees in environmental field services, fish and aquatic issues, construction, safety and community relations that support our facilities in the Lower Columbia - Duncan Dam, Kootenay Canal, Hugh L. Keenleyside Dam and Seven Mile Dam and Generating Station.
“These roles are essential for our continued operations and our ability to respond to local issues.”
Coules went on to describe the full scope of regional operations.
“The Columbia Region is important to BC Hydro. We have four major hydroelectric dams in this area that produce approximately 45.5 per cent of the total power generated by BC Hydro - Kootenay Canal, Mica Dam and Generating Station, Revelstoke Dam and Generating Station and Seven Mile Dam and Generating Station. There are also two storage dams that were built under the terms of the Columbia River Treaty - Duncan Dam and the Hugh L. Keenleyside Dam. We also own one-third of the Waneta Dam.”