Representatives from all levels of Government, tourism businesses, wood industry representatives, planners and developers came together yesterday to break ground on the site of the new Vancouver Island and Coast Visitor Centre.The diverse group was an indication of the unique scope and scale of the project which will not only act as the largest and only regional visitor centre on Vancouver Island, but also an industry showcase profiling the environmental attributes of the region and the varied industries that drive the economy here. John Duncan, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Member of Parliament for Vancouver Island North participated in the ceremony, "Unprecedented investments under Canada's Economic Action Plan, such as the support provided for the Vancouver Island and Coast Visitor Centre, will help us continue to rise above the economic slowdown and will lay the foundations for economic growth and future prosperity for many years to come," said Minister Duncan. "The new Visitor Centre will become an essential part of the local community for business, cultural, educational and community services."Located in the Village of Cumberland boundaries on the Comox Valley Parkway near the Inland Island Highway, the Centre will enjoy massive drive by exposure, "This is an incredible location for this Centre," said Susan Toresdahl, President of Comox Valley Economic Development, the agency overseeing the project, "It's a key gateway to our municipalities and surrounding areas and boasts incredible traffic numbers year round thanks to the Highway, the Comox Valley Airport, attractions like Mount Washington and our overall destination."The project has received contributions and commitment from Western Economic Diversification Canada and the Island Coastal Economic Trust, "Without that support, we wouldn't be where we are today," said Toresdahl.Information on the project, including site and building renderings can be found on vicvisitorcentre.com