The Port of Prince Rupert, in British Columbia, projects that its fully-realized development plan could generate almost 5,000 new jobs in northern British Columbia directly related to port activity.

Using a model derived from project proposals and land use plans, the forecast quantifies the potential growth of the port’s economic impact through 2025 and beyond, according to the port authority. The model makes assumptions for capital investments, average employment levels and wages, the port said.

“The vision of Prince Rupert as a leading North American trade gateway builds on our strengths and our track record,” said Don Krusel, President & CEO of the Port of Prince Rupert.

“The question is, can we achieve it? We believe we can, but it’s going to take a vision that aligns the priorities, efforts and investments of local communities and First Nations with the economic opportunities that are presented.”

Current and proposed developments on port lands at Fairview Container Terminal, the Ridley Island Industrial Site and Lelu Island have the potential to create an integrated platform for shipping with the capacity to transport over 100 million tonnes of cargo annually.

The full buildout of the port’s planned infrastructure and terminals is predicted to potentially generate an increase of 4,780 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs directly related to port activity, USD 310 million annually in additional wages, and USD 59 million annually in additional local municipal taxes for the City of Prince Rupert and the District of Port Edward.