Members of the Kitsumkalum Tsimshian reserve had a community meeting on Tuesday to discuss the planned expansion of their community hall. 

The Kitsumkalum hall was originally constructed in 1996 and, since then, it has played an important role in the community, often hosting events that see an average of 500 people. 

The Northwest Inter-Nation Family and Community Services Society in Kitsumkalum has been working with two engineers from Associated Engineering to design an upgrade and expansion of the hall that will be able to accommodate the various gatherings.

Freda Leong and Esaly Wu from Associated Engineering explained the plans to the community. Proposed upgrades include the construction of a commercial grade kitchen, re-doing the roof and the improvement of their heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. Leong also stressed the importance of including cultural aspects into the design, like constructing a carving house, and installing traditional murals along the walls. 

During the meeting, attendees were given surveys that will support a needs assessment study to be used in the application process for funding. 

The total estimated cost for the project is $4.5 million, though the community already has a base amount of $2.2 million. 

That funding has come from the Investing in Canada northern communities stream, however, they are hoping to gain more funding through green energy and cultural grants. 

If everything goes according to plan, they hope to start the two year construction project in 2023.

You can listen to the full radio story below: