The Merritt Camp Community, located near Merritt, BC, will accommodate up to 400 people working on and supporting the Trans Mountain Expansion Project. The site, which will be active from July 2021 to September 30, 2023, is operated by Civeo through a joint venture partnership with the Lower Nicola Indian Band.
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 Merritt 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
- Health and medical services
- On-site store providing a limited range of convenience items
- Quiet spaces for reflection/spiritual meditation
- Ability for workers to self-isolate if needed
Within the Merritt 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 summer 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 healthcare 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 local communities, Indigenous groups 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.
