Cree First Nation of Waswanipi breaks ground on long-awaited hotel
CBC
The Cree First Nation of Waswanipi has officially broken ground on its hotel, marking a milestone for the northern Quebec community after decades of anticipation.
The community first dreamed up the project in the early 1990s during a time of growth for Waswanipi. The idea was to have a spot to host out-of-towners visiting for events like hockey tournaments, snowmobile races and fishing derbies.
The groundbreaking ceremony on June 10 coincided with the 49th anniversary of Waswanipi. Marcel Happyjack, head of Waswanipi Development Corporation, said the project will fill a longstanding gap in the community.
"At times people pass through and look for accommodations. So that will be an opportunity for us to showcase Waswanipi and what we can provide," said Happyjack.
The project, costing about $12-million, had been continuously delayed due to limited funding but financial support from the Cree First Nation of Waswanipi, the Cree Nation Government, the Government of Quebec, and other partners — through grants and interest-free loans — made construction possible.
Beyond meeting accommodation needs, the project is expected to generate employment opportunities for local community members.
"We're looking forward to providing employment opportunities for local people to be part of something that we built," said Happyjack.
While the number of positions has not yet been finalized, he said priority will be given to community members.
The hotel will be situated next to Highway 13, easily visible to travellers, particularly during winter storms when road conditions may force motorists to seek shelter, said Happyjack.
Happyjack said the hotel's name is still under consideration, with a preference for a Cree translation of "the three rivers," reflecting the site's location at the confluence of the Opawica, Chibougamau, and Waswanipi rivers, within the community's cultural village.
"Waswanipi is my hometown. I lived here most of my life. It's a very hospitable place," Happyjack said.
"We host different events throughout the year. So many more visitors will come and see what we do and what we can be, and what we can do for others. That's what I'm most proud of," said Happyjack.
The hotel will feature 20 guest rooms, a restaurant, a museum, and a laundromat.
Negotiations with contractors are ongoing, but the community aims to open the hotel in 2026.
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