Port Alberni Visitor Centre Closure: How City Funding Cuts Are Impacting Local Tourism

Port Alberni Visitor Centre Closure: A Sudden Pause for a Vital Community Hub

Port Alberni’s Visitor Centre—an essential stop for tourists exploring Vancouver Island—has temporarily closed its doors until summer 2025. This unexpected development comes after the City of Port Alberni chose to withdraw funding from the centre, operated by the Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce. While temporary, the closure raises important questions about local tourism support and community priorities.

The Centre, located at the busy junction of Johnston Road and Redford Street, played a vital role in welcoming travelers, offering local business guides, maps, and personalized recommendations. Without this resource, both new and returning visitors may miss out on the hidden gems Port Alberni has to offer.

Port Alberni Visitor Centre Closure and City Funding Cuts: What Happened and What’s Next

According to local officials, the funding cut is part of a broader municipal effort to reevaluate tourism-related investments. The City previously provided the Centre with $60,000 annually—funds that now will be redirected toward other strategic priorities. This shift is part of a larger conversation about tourism’s evolving role in Port Alberni’s economic landscape.

Despite the pause, Chamber CEO Bill Collette has confirmed that the Centre plans to reopen for the busy summer season. In the meantime, tourism information will still be available online, and visitors can check out the Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce website for updated travel resources.

The Ripple Effect: What It Means for Local Businesses

For small businesses that rely on visitor traffic—cafés, outdoor tour operators, local artisans—this change could be more than a hiccup. The Visitor Centre often serves as a funnel, guiding newcomers to local experiences. Its absence could reduce foot traffic and local spending during the spring months.

Local residents and business owners are encouraged to amplify their own marketing efforts during this period. Social media visibility, updated Google listings, and word-of-mouth recommendations can help bridge the gap until the Centre reopens. ReadMore

What Visitors Can Do Right Now

• Plan Ahead: Use digital tools like Google Maps, TripAdvisor, and Everyana’s Travel Picks to find activities and eateries in the area.
• Support Local: Even without a Visitor Centre, you can still discover Port Alberni’s charm through its markets, trails, and waterfront.
• Stay Updated: Keep an eye on the Chamber’s social channels for summer reopening announcements.

As Port Alberni rethinks its approach to tourism, one thing is clear: the community’s spirit and hospitality remain strong. The temporary closure may be a bump in the road, but it also presents an opportunity to reshape how visitors engage with this vibrant island town.