Starting November 22, BC Transit and the Village of Pemberton are increasing service on the Route 99 Commuter, with over 1,500 additional hours added to improve flexibility and options throughout the day.
For updated trip details, and for more information on schedules or to sign up for alerts, please visit bctransit.com/pemberton-valley.
Multi-Modal Transportation Hub: Phase One Open
Pemberton’s new Multi-Modal Transportation Hub opened on November 6, 2024. While the main area will be available for use, Phase 1 construction continues with the addition of a bathroom building, irrigation, and picnic tables. Phase 2, which includes a bus loop, lighting, EV chargers, and concrete sidewalks, will move forward as we secure project funding.
This project is funded through a $1.8M grant from the Rural and Northern Communities. Once complete, the hub will offer amenities like bike storage, water fountains, and infrastructure to support future EV charging stations.
2024 Pemberton Barn Dance
Mark your calendars, for the 2024 Pemberton Barn Dance on Saturday, September 21, 2024.
Brought to you by The Pemberton Lions Club and Rotary Club of Pemberton and proudly supported by Sunstone Pemberton this year’s fundraiser will showcase live music, line dancing, photo booth, and more. Due to anticipated high demand, the Pemberton Barn Dance is having a lottery for all general admission ticket sales. Stay tuned for more details.
Sunstone to Lake trail now open
April 16, 2024 ~ New Trail Announcement
We are excited to announce the opening of the new Sunstone to Lake trail! This multi-use trail, marked with new wayfinding signs, features a gravel surface and some challenging gradients, running from Sunstone to Mosquito Lake. Along the trail, you will experience a stunning landscape rich in biodiversity, with towering mountains and braided river valleys, all on the unceded territory of the Líl̓wat Nation.
The construction of the Sunstone to Lake trail was fully funded by Sunstone Ridge Developments Ltd., granted a Section 57, and will now be maintained by the Pemberton Valley Trails Association. We invite all to enjoy this beautiful new trail.
Village of Pemberton launches comprehensive planning study for Hillside neighbourhood
July 2, 2023 – Coordinated consideration of three separate development proposals should paint clearer picture of ‘how this whole area is going to come together,’ says VOP staff
Long-awaited plans to expand Pemberton’s Hillside neighbourhood are gaining traction, but three separate residential developments proposed for the area still face a long, winding road before developers can break ground.
At a Committee of the Whole (COW) meeting on June 20, Village of Pemberton (VOP) mayor and council directed municipal staff to proceed with an accelerated, comprehensive and holistic neighbourhood planning process for the parcels of land surrounding Spud Valley’s existing Sunstone development, adjacent to Den Duyf Park.
In a presentation to the committee, VOP manager of development services Scott McRae identified three “substantial” development applications currently in the works for Hillside.
The municipality has already received applications for the Parkside development, which proposes a new subdivision of 34 single-family residential lots and one commercial lot at 7362 Pemberton Farm Road East; and for Redwoods, where developers are seeking council’s approval to build 134 townhouse units at 7374 Pemberton Farm Road East. The Village also expects to see an application for Sunstone Phase 4 “imminently,” McRae said.
Despite the fact all three developers are at different stages of the application process, it makes sense to review their proposals in a coordinated manner, McRae explained, especially considering all three require amendments to Pemberton’s Official Community Plan (OCP) in order to move forward. “Some of the applications have been with us for some time and other applications we’re still waiting for, but we see an opportunity in moving them all together at the same time, and … addressing these issues all at once rather than three times individually,” he said.
Surveying of the Hillside lands began in the mid-2000s, shortly before the south-facing terrain five kilometres east of downtown Pemberton became the subject of an agreement between private developers and the Lil’wat Nation, on whose unceded territory the land sits. A boundary expansion brought Hillside into the VOP’s fold—and its newly-adopted OCP—in 2011, earmarking the site for future community growth.
That was years before Pemberton’s population started skyrocketing. A recent housing needs report projected the VOP could count 5,295 residents by 2028, if the trend that saw Pemberton’s population rise 32 per cent in just five years—reaching 3,407 as of 2021 from 2,574 in 2016—continues. To accommodate all of those new residents, the report found Pemberton would require 847 new dwellings within the next five years.
But despite well-established demand for housing across the Sea to Sky corridor and extensive studies into Hillside’s development potential over the last two decades, a brief mention of Hillside land use designations in Pemberton’s OCP fails to lay out the specific policies or guidelines municipal officials typically consult when regulating development.
“The general approach of this Hillside Planning Study, which is what we’re calling it tentatively, essentially is going to build on the history that has been presented and is available, take that history and consolidate it into one place, and then look through it and identify areas where [the information] needs to be updated,” McRae explained.
The study aims to inform a policy framework, development permit area guidelines, and, ultimately, a draft neighbourhood plan that would be subject to community consultation before the VOP proceeds with any OCP or rezoning bylaw amendments for Hillside. Meanwhile, the VOP is currently in the midst of a two-year-long OCP Review slated to wrap up in January.
“Staff feel that this is an opportunity to really get a good sense of what is happening on Hillside; looking at each of these applications and then looking at how they will interact as a whole on the Hillside,” McRae explained. “By undertaking this planning study, we’ll have the opportunity to give council a better sense of how this whole area is going to come together.”
The impetus for a comprehensive Hillside Planning Study was a discussion at Pemberton’s April 25 COW meeting, following staff’s report about the proposed Parkside subdivision.
“What I’m concerned about is that if we [build] a bit here, a bit here, and a bit there, the importance of greenspace and community gardens and all of those things, aren’t—as a whole entire concept and vision—being incorporated,” Coun. Katrina Nightingale expressed at the time.
She added: “I’m pulling back and I’m looking to the future and I’m imagining that whole space, and I feel uncomfortable looking at a tiny piece, not knowing what the entire vision is.”
Planner Colin Brown acknowledged the importance of “getting it right,” as Nightingale phrased it, but said widening the scope to focus on the entire Hillside neighbourhood rather than individual developments would create a significantly larger project.
“To bring in a new framework for everyone is something that, if council chose to go that route, is certainly something we can explore, but it’s by no means a small or simple process,” he explained in April.
Last month, VOP councillors directed staff at municipal hall to review possible non-residential land uses for the entire Hillside area, and return to the council table with a clearer picture of how proposed developments could integrate greenspace, commercial developments, recreation assets and other community amenities.
“[The] committee expressed some thoughts around this in the last couple of meetings and I appreciate staff’s response to those concerns in bringing this report forward,” noted Pemberton Mayor Mike Richman following McRae’s June 20 presentation. “I think it reflects what council was grappling with.”
New École La Vallée will strengthen francophone community in Pemberton
Francophone families in Pemberton will have a new school for K-12 students and a permanent home for École La Vallée to support existing and forecast enrolment growth.
“Pemberton has a thriving francophone community that will benefit from a permanent new school closer to families who need it,” said Rachna Singh, Minister of Education. “With funding now in place, we can start developing a modern school that francophone students and their families have been waiting for.”
École La Vallée will offer education in French for students from kindergarten to Grade 12 with its own dedicated school. The school will create 220 new student seats, with the flexibility to add as many 150 new seats in the future.
The project will also include a neighbourhood learning centre, which will primarily be used for French-language child care while providing a convenient dropoff location for parents who also have school-aged children. Additionally, the school district has planned a number of community spaces which will help bring francophone families together for recreational classes and events.
“Child care on school grounds makes life easier for families as it provides parents with peace of mind through one drop-off and pick-up location,” said Grace Lore, Minister of State for Child Care. “Our government is prioritizing child care as we build new schools, and I know a child care centre offering care for francophone children will be a welcome addition to this project.”
In keeping with the Province’s CleanBC emissions-reduction goals, the school will include hybrid mass-timber construction, as part of the Province’s Mass Timber Action Plan. These innovative low-carbon building materials will help reduce greenhouse-gas emissions throughout the building’s lifetime.
“The Conseil scolaire francophone (CSF) is proud to announce that we have received government approval for the construction of a new school in Pemberton,” said Marie-Pierre Lavoie, board chair, CSF. “This is excellent news for students at École La Vallée and the region’s francophone community. In just a few years, students from kindergarten through high school will finally have a new school to attend. We would like to thank the Government of British Columbia and all our partners for their commitment to making this project a reality.”
Since September 2017, the Province has provided the CSF with more than $58.9 million for site purchases in Burnaby, Kamloops, Penticton, Victoria, Pemberton and Smithers, as well as more than $23.7 million for École Beausoleil in Victoria, La Grande-ourse in Smithers and a new gymnasium addition at École des-Deux-Rives in Mission. The Province also provided funding to help CSF establish a capital project office to more efficiently co-ordinate and deliver capital projects for francophone students and their families throughout B.C.
Since September 2017, the Government of B.C. has also announced 24,000 new student spaces and 35,000 seismically safer seats. This is thanks to almost $3.9 billion the Province has provided for new and improved schools, as well as land purchases for future schools throughout the province.
Sunstone was proud to support the Pemberton Lions Club and Rotary Club of Pemberton as the title sponsor in hosting this highly anticipated and legendary community fundraiser. Appreciation goes out to local bands – The Courageous Mountain Rangers, The Big Love Band, and Dakota Pearl – along with the other sponsors, vendors, and, most importantly, the dedicated organizers who make this annual event such a success. Looking forward to more music and dancing next year!
Top 10 Reasons to Move to Pemberton
Embrace Tranquility and Adventure: Top 10 Reasons to Move to Pemberton
Nestled in the heart of the stunning Sea-to-Sky Corridor, Pemberton, British Columbia, is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and a tight-knit community. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an active lifestyle, Pemberton has something for everyone. Here are the top 10 reasons why you should consider making the move to Pemberton:
1. Breathtaking Natural Beauty: Prepare to be awestruck by Pemberton’s jaw-dropping landscapes. With the iconic Mount Currie towering in the background, lush farmlands, tranquil lakes, and pristine forests surround the town, providing a picturesque backdrop for everyday life.
2. Outdoor Wonderland: Pemberton is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and mountain biking to skiing and snowboarding, the region offers a plethora of activities for all seasons. The nearby Joffre Lakes Provincial Park is a hiker’s dream, boasting turquoise lakes and awe-inspiring alpine scenery.
3. World-Class Skiing: Just a short drive away, Whistler Blackcomb beckons with its renowned ski slopes. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a snowboarding novice, the world-class resort offers endless winter fun.
4. Thriving Agriculture: Pemberton’s fertile soil and favorable climate create a haven for agriculture. Local farmers cultivate a wide variety of organic produce, from vegetables and fruits to honey and lavender. The Pemberton Farmers’ Market is a must-visit for fresh, locally-grown delights.
5. Sense of Community: Despite its natural beauty, Pemberton’s true charm lies in its people. The warm and welcoming community fosters a sense of belonging, making it easy to form lasting friendships and connections.
6. Arts and Culture: Despite its small size, Pemberton boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene. From art galleries and live music to community events, there’s always something creative happening.
7. Sustainable Living: If you’re passionate about eco-friendly living, you’ll find like-minded individuals in Pemberton. The community values sustainability and strives to reduce its environmental footprint.
8. Peaceful Retreat: Tired of the hustle and bustle of city life? Pemberton offers a peaceful retreat from the noise and stress, allowing you to unwind and enjoy a slower pace of life.
9. Strong Economy: Pemberton isn’t just about leisure; it’s a place of opportunity. With a growing economy driven by tourism, agriculture, and small businesses, there are various avenues to explore for personal and professional growth.
10. Proximity to Vancouver: While Pemberton offers a tranquil escape, it’s still conveniently close to the vibrant city of Vancouver. A scenic drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway connects you to the urban amenities and cultural experiences of the city.
Pemberton, British Columbia, is a place where nature’s beauty converges with a tight-knit community, offering a unique lifestyle that balances adventure and tranquility. Whether you’re drawn to outdoor escapades, artistic endeavors, or a sense of belonging, Pemberton has it all. If you’re considering a move, this picturesque town might just be the perfect place to call home.
The developer reserves the right to make changes and modifications to the project design, specifications and features without notice. E&O.E. This advertisement/document does not constitute offers of sale capable of acceptance without a Disclosure Statement.
Contact
Keith McIvor
Personal Real Estate Corporation
1 (604) 935-2650
1 (800) 667-2993 keith@wrec.com
