Read our Spring 2025 Update here, and watch the video.

As yáqʷa Development Corporation advances planning for the next phase of the Haisla Centre Project, we want to make sure the community is informed about site activities and future plans. The following provides an update on current activities and next steps. To receive updates, please follow us on Facebook or email us at info@yaqwadevcorp.com.

Overview of Current Activities

• Road and site work will be coming to an end in late spring/ early summer at Haisla Centre getting us one step closer to our ultimate goal. 
• The Master Plan Consultant has been engaged, and the process, which is now in full swing, will help define a clear vision for the future. 
• We are preparing community engagement plans regarding the next phase of Haisla Centre. 

Background

yáqʷa is leading the development of the Haisla Centre Project, located at the site of the old Kitimat hospital. The land was acquired by Haisla Nation from the Province of British Columbia. 

The first phase of Haisla Centre, the Haisla Condo building, includes a 49-room building which was completed in 2017. The building is currently being leased to LNG Canada to provide housing for LNG Canada temporary-relocated personnel under a long-term lease. 

Phase 2 envisions the potential development of a broad range of residential and commercial spaces, and services and amenities for the community. The final design and timing of the development of Phase 2 is subject to further detailed analysis and financial feasibility work, however yáqʷa has engaged a consultant to develop a Master Plan for Phase 2, work which is currently underway. 

Master Planning Process Underway

Earlier in 2025, through a competitive RFP process, yáqʷa selected Urban Strategies Inc. to lead the development of a Master Plan for Haisla Centre. Urban Strategies has teamed up with McElhanney in Kitimat and Vamos Advisors to deliver the scope of work. 

Urban Strategies is a well-respected Canadian planning and urban design firm with over 35 years of experience. They specialize in site feasibility, planning, and development approval services. In B.C., they work with various clients including BC Housing, Huu-ay-aht First Nations, and the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Development Corporation. 

Their team visited Kitimat in early 2025. Together with the yáqʷa team and the Haisla Culture and Language Department, they explored Kitimat, Haisla Village, toured Haisla Centre and discovered our rich history and what a unique and special place our community can offer its residents, and visitors alike. Urban Strategies’ planning is underway, including working with yáqʷa, the District of Kitimat and other stakeholders to collect important information for the development of the Master Plan. 

As yáqʷa Development Corporation advances planning for the next phase of Haisla Centre Project, we want to make sure the community is informed about site activities and future plans.

Community Input Helps Shape the Future of Haisla Centre

In 2021, a community interest survey was undertaken to seek input from the people in Kitimat and the surrounding communities to (i) better plan for and build a town centre that meets community needs, and (ii) to inform the broader economic development of Kitimat. 

While the survey yielded important data about the community’s interests and desires, any input must be considered together with detailed financial and economic data analysis which is currently underway, to ensure Haisla Centre is successful and serves the community in the long-term. 

Additional engagement and information sharing is planned. Details about activities and events will be shared with the community in the coming weeks. 

About yáqʷa

yáqʷa was established in 2024 as the economic development arm of Haisla Nation. Our mandate is to develop, manage and own the active businesses of the Nation. yáqʷa was established to allow for the separation of business and governance within the Haisla Nation. We are open for business and encourage you to visit our website to learn more and reach out to our team.