Wood WORKS! BC handed out five awards this year for exemplary use of wood in a community project. The Association of Kootenay Boundary Local Governments award was given to the Village of Nakusp for the Kuskanax Creek Footbridge.
“We congratulate these communities for demonstrating leadership and vision by embracing wood in their local projects,” stated Mary Tracey, Executive Director of Wood WORKS! BC in a recent press release.
Wood WORKS! is a national campaign that aims to increase the use of wood in commercial, industrial and institutional construction.
Local timber frame builder Dave Madden who worked on the foot bridge was also pleased by the Village’s choice.
“I think it is great that government is recognizing and encouraging the use of wood in public projects,” he told the Arrow Lakes News. “By using materials that are locally available in B.C., we can support our economy and preserve a tradition of wooden structures. When compared to concrete or steel, wood is a very environmentally conscious choice.”
Tracey added that the strong historical connection to wood in B.C. allows communities to tell their story through the construction of public buildings in wood, “bringing pride to towns and cities, and leaving a legacy for citizens.”