FORT ST. JOHN - A long‑anticipated project for Doig River First Nation officially opened its doors today, marking a major milestone in economic development and partnership in northeastern B.C.
The grand opening of Naache Commons, an urban reserve development in Fort St. John, brought together community members, leaders and partners to celebrate years of planning and collaboration.
City Councillor Trevor Bolin noted the project’s roots stretch back more than a decade, pointing to the first memorandum of understanding signed between the City of Fort St. John and Doig River First Nation in 2009.
“This amazing facility is celebrating that work today,” Bolin said, congratulating everyone involved in bringing the development to life.
The ceremony comes more than two years after construction began on the site, located across from Margaret ‘Ma’ Murray Community School.
The event featured an opening by Doig River First Nation drummers and welcomed members of the public.
Naache Commons is described as the first urban reserve, known as Gat Tah Kwą̂ in northeastern B.C., and represents a return to ancestral lands for the Nation.
The development already includes several commercial operations, such as a Shell gas station and Kekuli Café, along with office space for the Nation’s development corporation.
Plans for the site extend beyond its current footprint. The mixed‑use project is expected to grow into a full neighbourhood hub, featuring additional commercial space, residential buildings, and green space.
Leaders say the project is aimed at supporting long‑term economic independence and prosperity for Doig River First Nation, while also strengthening ties with surrounding communities.
The development is also expected to serve thousands of status card holders in the region and act as a centre for business and cultural expression, incorporating Dane-zaa elements into its design.
Organizers say the opening represents not just the completion of a project, but the beginning of a new chapter for the Nation and the broader Fort St. John community.