Construction is on schedule for an end-of-July opening for the gas bar and retail centre located in the townsite of Morley, according to Rob Shotclose, CEO of Bearspaw First Nation.
The 6,000-sq. ft. project, initiated by the Bearspaw First Nation Development Corporation and constructed by XPS Contracting, will be home to a gas bar, convenience store, wand-style car wash, Subway franchise and dining area, and a retail space.
“It’s a great spot for this space — there’s really no place in the downtown Morley area where you can go to buy something like a pop,” said Shotclose of the construction, which will be located alongside the Bearspaw Youth Centre and within walking distance of a number of workplaces, schools and residences.
Currently, Shotclose said the Bearspaw Nation is in negotiations with fuel retailer Fas Gas Plus in an effort to place a recognizable brand to the up-and-coming retail centre. He said he’s hoping the partnership will allow the versatility to incorporate First Nations’ art and décor into the space.
“This will be a for-profit business and we aim to run it that day,” said Shotclose. “But it will also provide jobs for people here on the reserve.”
Shotclose estimated the retail space would create about 10-12 employment opportunities.
