Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was in Vancouver today to formally announce the completion of major renovations to the Kitsilano Coast Guard base.
With the enhanced, reopened station, the Coast Guard can respond more quickly and efficiently to emergencies on our waterways, and strengthen its environmental response operations on the West Coast.
The Kitsilano Coast Guard base was closed by Stephen Harper’s government in 2013 and then reopened under Trudeau’s leadership in 2016 when the work to modernize, expand, and improve the station began.
The main building at the Kits base underwent significant renovations, including a new roof, the replacement of exterior cladding and steel girders, and the installation of new windows. The interior building was renovated to include a training room that can also be used as an incident command post, and additional sleeping quarters for up to six crew members.
The renovations include enhanced marine infrastructure with new and larger floating docks to house gear, heaters, and medical supplies in support of environmental response operations, equipment cleaning, and training exercises.
The Prime Minister also announced today that the CG 158 response boat based permanently at Kitsilano has been named the CCGS Laredo Sound, after an ocean passage off the scenic central coast of B.C.
“The Canadian Coast Guard does essential and often life-saving work. By reopening and renovating the Kitsilano base, we’re making sure the Coast Guard has the modern facilities and equipment they need. As the climate crisis places more demand on the Coast Guard, we can count on them to keep serving Canadians – protecting our environment, growing our economy, and keeping our waters safe, secure, and open,” stated Trudeau today.
Last modified: July 29, 2019
