Columbia Basin Trust is excited to announce the launch of a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the construction of a new, permanent office at 83 & 85 Nelson Avenue N, Nakusp. This new development will replace our current leased office, offering a modern and sustainable space that reflects our long-term commitment to the community.
“We’re thrilled to move forward with this significant investment in Nakusp,” said Johnny Strilaeff, President and CEO of Columbia Basin Trust. “Nakusp holds a special place in our history—it’s where we opened our first office in 1999. By establishing this new permanent office, we’re making a lasting investment in the community and reaffirming our deep connection to the people and the history we share here. We hope to see local trades and companies benefit from this opportunity as we create a space that serves both our staff and the people of Nakusp and area.”
The new office building will set a benchmark for energy efficiency, sustainability and accessibility. The two-story office, designed to BC Energy Step Code 3, with the potential to achieve Step Code 4, will incorporate significant volumes of wood products in its design, including the main building structure, canopy, and exterior. Additionally, the building will feature a 20kW solar array system, consisting of 45 high-efficiency panels covering the entire roof to reduce energy consumption and support our climate action goals. The building is designed to meet 2024 BC Building Code accessibility standards, with wheelchair-accessible parking, sidewalks with let-downs, automatic door openers, accessible kitchens, washrooms, showers, and an incline wheelchair lift.
“This announcement is exciting news for Nakusp and area residents,” said Mayor Tom Zeleznik. “A
permanent, state-of-the-art Columbia Basin Trust office underscores the Trust’s long-term commitment to
our community. With a local office, the Trust will be more accessible to residents, enabling deeper
engagement with local needs and priorities. This new building will not only enhance the Trust’s ability to
support the community but also contribute to the local economy by creating jobs and supporting
businesses. I’d like to thank past councils and residents for their commitment to this long-term vision and
extend our gratitude to the Trust for their continued dedication to Nakusp.”
Proponents will be required to demonstrate their capacity to deliver the project on time and within budget while utilizing local resources to the greatest extent possible. As part of the New West Partnership Trade Agreement, this opportunity will be posted on BC Bid, and the project will be awarded as a fixed-price contract.
The Trust encourages all interested parties to review the full RFP document at bcbid.gov.bc.ca. The
submission deadline is October 30, 2024.
The Trust has three other offices in Castlegar, Cranbrook and Golden.
