A report in the Vancouver Sun says the federal government has agreed to spend $9.2 million on the initial phase of the Vancouver-Whistler 2010 Winter Olympic bid, and will commit a further $125 million if the bid is successful. The $9.2 million is being matched by provincial and private-sector contributions to fund the bid phase of the program, which lasts until the final decision in July 2003.
An announcement is expected to be made early next week by Heritage Minister Sheila Copps.
Bid spokesperson Sam Corea said it will cost about $23 million to prepare the bid and travel the world wining and dining voting members of the International Olympic Committee. He said, “you have to reach 120 people (on the IOC) located throughout the world with the information”.
The federal government will appoint a Canadian ambassador to work with the B.C. Olympic organizers at obvious lobbying opportunities such as the 2002 Winter Olympics at Salt Lake City.
In an interview with GamesBids.com, Corea said that “various bid staff members and officials will be in Salt Lake to observe, listen and begin to introduce our bid to an international audience”.
The $9.2 million was unanimously endorsed at a cabinet committee this week and will be approved by full cabinet on Monday.
The federal government has also agreed to commit $125 million to cover security, medical costs for foreign athletes, visa processing and other matters.
Also, the federal cabinet is expected to consider a plan early next year to help B.C. finance new facilities in support of the bid. If the bid is successful, governments and the private sector would have to build such facilities as bobsled and luge tracks, a long-track speed skating oval and ski jumps.
The federal and provincial governments will also consider other projects, which aren’t fundamental to holding the Olympics but would enhance the bid, said Corea.
These projects would include an expanded trade and convention centre, a rapid transit service from the airport, and enhancements to the Sea-to-Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler.
