Exciting news! This month we are beginning the Hollyhock Revitalization Project. This work aims to renew key campus infrastructure to provide a more enriching experience for guests on our Cortes Island campus. 

The Vision: Enhancing Hollyhock for Generations to Come

Last year, Hollyhock was awarded funds from the Canadian Government Tourism Relief Fund. The grant was designed to assist tourism organizations in adapting their post-pandemic operations, with a focus on creating or enhancing products and services to offer the best Canadian tourism experiences. The grant was built to support three key areas: 

• An expanded lodge deck with increased accessibility. We are replacing the twenty-five year old lodge deck with an expanded and accessible deck to increase restaurant capacity and operational sustainability. 
• Rebuilding the hot tubs. Our hot tubs have reached the end of life. We have redesigned the hot tub area to help extend our season and provide a much needed campus space for relaxation and connection to our most elemental selves. 
• Inclusive gender neutral restrooms. In order to widen the window of welcome to our guests, we are remodeling our lodge restrooms to be gender neutral.

Why These Priorities?

These projects were identified during our 2019-2021 Campus Plan Process, reflecting a commitment to improved experiences, inclusiveness, and increased employment opportunities. By investing in these areas, we aim to not only elevate the quality of our facilities but also contribute to economic development on Cortes Island.

“We’re so excited to have this opportunity to upgrade some of our spaces at Hollyhock” shares Campus Director Tecuana Woolridge. “This grant has given us the opportunity to replace some ageing systems, and create a better experience for our guests, our staff, and our community.”

Construction has begun this week, with completion scheduled for late spring prior to campus opening.