Plans are underway to build one and possibly two helipads on the Southside thanks to an initiative of Clint Lambert, Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako (RDBN) Area Director for Francois/Ootsa Lake Rural, and the Cheslatta Carrier Nation, Skin Tyee First Nation, and Nee-Tahi-Buhn Band.

Lambert is working with the three First Nations to address the lack of helipads in the large rural and sparsely populated area south of Francois Lake. The lack of suitable helicopter landing sites has posed challenges for emergency services.

Currently, there are no helipads on the Southside and when an air ambulance is needed, the provincial ambulance service uses uses Rio Tinto Alcan's helipad at the Skins Lake Spillway.

Lambert said helipads to improve emergency response times are key to enhancing healthcare access for rural residents and ensuring emergency medical services are as efficient as those in larger urban centres like Vancouver.

The plan is to build one helipad at the Southside Health and Wellness Centre in Grassy Plains, and another potentially at the Trout Creek Hall Association near Colleymount.

"Currently, travel times to the nearest hospital can exceed an hour, and some residents face even longer commutes just to reach the ferry," Lambert said.

"The helipads will primarily serve health-related emergencies, facilitating quicker medical transportation for heart attacks, strokes, and other time-sensitive conditions," he added.

BC Ambulance supports the idea, recognizing the need for improved infrastructure in rural areas, he said. The provincial and federal governments may provide money.

BC Ambulance now operates helicopters capable of flying at night, which would allow them to respond more effectively in urgent situations. With designated helipads, helicopters could land during both the day and night, ensuring faster medical care in critical moments, Lambert said.

The First Nations communities are eager to see the project move forward, as it will benefit everyone in the area, regardless of who needs emergency care, he added.

The cost for each helipad is estimated to range from $80,000 to $600,000, depending on the size and design.

While exact cost-sharing details are still being finalized, Lambert anticipates the costs will be divided between the regional district and First Nations. Financing will be determined once the design and scope are confirmed.

The project is currently in the planning phase and Lambert hopes to finalize the specifications for the helipads within the next month, with construction expected to begin in 2025. The first helipad may be ready by the summer or fall of 2025.

As for naming the helipads, Lambert said he is considering a community contest to involve local residents in the process, ensuring everyone has a say in this important project.