The Blue River Camp Community, located near Blue River, BC, will accommodate up to 550 people working on and supporting the Trans Mountain Expansion Project. The site, which will be under construction and operating from September 2021 to August 31, 2023, is operated by Tsetsk’wem Management Services – a Joint Venture between Simpcw Resource Group and ATCO, a partnership formed specifically for the Expansion Project.
Trans Mountain has sought input and expertise from Indigenous communities, local governments, service and accommodation providers, first responders and other stakeholders when developing this site. Engagement with these same groups is ongoing and will continue throughout construction of the Expansion Project.
We understand the importance of ensuring temporary workers and their accommodation needs are well-managed and are aligned with the community’s interests and capacity. In addition to our Worker Code of Conduct for all Expansion Project workers, our camp community policies and management practices ensure a safe and respectful environment for all.
Community and Infrastructure
The Blue River Camp Community is a self-sufficient site connected to power with on-site water and sewer infrastructure. The community includes a variety of amenities, including:
- Private bedrooms and bathrooms
- Central dining with full meal service and bagged lunches
- Recreation areas including pool tables, foosball tables and exercise equipment
- On-site lounge
- Laundry
- Health and medical services
- Quiet spaces for reflection/spiritual meditation
Within the Blue River Camp Community, alcohol is prohibited except where served in the controlled licensed lounge, operating in compliance with provincial regulations. The controlled lounge approach ensures a safe environment for residents, while maintaining consumption limitations that support worker wellness and healthy lifestyles. Alcohol will not be allowed on-site until the controlled lounge opens, which is anticipated for fall/winter 2021.
Transportation
Most workers are bused to and from worksites, minimizing traffic on public roadways. Parking is available on-site for workers staying in the camp community and for local workers driving to work at the camp community.
Wellness and Support
Urgent and non-urgent health-care services are available on-site, including management of long-term health conditions or short-term illnesses as well as preventative health measures such as flu shots.
Confidential mental health and addiction services will be provided on-site in the camp community. On-site liaisons help support positive camp life through a range of programs including cultural and community-based activities.
Site Security
Trans Mountain collaborates with Indigenous groups, local communities and law enforcement on security and policing matters. On-site, a dedicated, certified Security Team provides 24/7 security, gate access and control, as well as contraband detection and enforcement. No unauthorized guests can visit the camp community and family or personal guests are not permitted to stay overnight. Any worker who does not return by the scheduled curfew is subject to a Fit for Duty assessment before going to work the next day.
