On the north coast of modern-day British Columbia, the Gitxaała (alongside the Ts’msyen, Nisg̱a’a, and Haida) have welcomed guests to their territories for thousands of years. With the acquisition of the Crest Hotel, a Prince Rupert landmark, the Gitxaała are continuing that tradition in a modern way, while also creating economic opportunity in the community.

“So much of our history is in the areas seen looking out the windows of the Crest,” says Lou Ga Gwelks Linda Innes, elected Chief Councillor of Gitxaała Nation. “We want to be able to share that beauty and experience with all who visit.”

In 2023, Gitxaała Enterprises, the Nation’s economic development corporation, purchased the Crest Hotel, an iconic property along the Prince Rupert harbourfront. The 107-room hotel boasts a variety of amenities, including a waterfront restaurant, café, lounge, fitness centre, and pub. Since purchasing the property, Gitxaała Enterprises has invested in several upgrades – including renovating the rooms, incorporating cultural elements into the hotel’s design, and installing energy-efficient appliances – to ensure the hotel will continue operating as a hub for visitors to the region.

“The Gitxaała Nation is very pleased to be the new owners of the Crest Hotel. We are fortunate to have the opportunity to bring the hotel into our Nation’s group of businesses through Gitxaała Enterprises Corporation,” says Chief Innes. “We have and will continue to actively pursue economic opportunities of every viable industry in the area. With the acquisition of the Crest, Gitxaała takes another step in creating long-term wealth and opportunities for the community, the Nation and its members.”

From the beginning, the Crest Hotel has been a pioneer in the hospitality sector, known for its dedication to excellent service and high standards. Built in 1961, the hotel was previously owned by Bill and Gwen Murray and some of their acquaintances. Starting as a 44-unit lodge overlooking the harbour, the Murrays added a restaurant in 1964 and, over time, expanded the hotel, doubling the number of rooms and growing the staff team.

The business has thrived, even in challenging economic times. Following periods of boom and bust in resource industries, communities on the coast are investing in tourism to diversify their economies. In Prince Rupert, tourism has become a major force, drawing visitors for eco-adventures, fishing charters, and the Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary.

Heat Pumps Provide Efficient Cooling, Heating

To update the Crest Hotel for the next generation of visitors, Gitxaała Enterprises has invested in new heat pumps for 80 rooms, with the installation taking place between February and August 2024. Previously, some guests had voiced concern about the lack of air conditioning, especially on hot summer days when open windows and fans were their only relief.

“We’ve had an incredible August with warm, sunny weather, and our guests were able to fully enjoy it in the comfort of air-conditioned rooms,” says Christopher Colussi, General Manager of the Crest Hotel. “As we transition into fall and winter, we’re excited about the energy efficiency of these units, which will not only keep our guests cozy but also bring significant savings in the long run.”

Gitxaała Enterprises accessed funding from their share of economic development funds with Coast Funds to purchase and install 80 heat pumps in rooms without adequate cooling. Importantly, heat pumps offer a dual benefit —warming rooms in winter and cooling them in summer—while reducing utility costs by 30 to 50 per cent when compared with electric baseboards or gas furnaces. Efficiency varies depending on the type of heat pump, the size of the home, and local electricity rates. Making investments in energy-efficient solutions is a wise decision, as temperatures in northern communities are forecasted to climb faster than global averages. These investments will also contribute to the longevity of the Crest Hotel, ensuring its presence for another 60 years.

Creating a Truly Local Experience

Christopher, the General Manger, shared that the Crest operates at over 95 per cent occupancy during peak times and maintains a solid 50 per cent occupancy during the shoulder season. The hotel employs 80 staff year-round, with additional workers during the spring and summer high season.

Beyond the numbers, the Crest Hotel remains committed to showcasing and supporting local talent, working with contractors, vendors, and artists to enhance the guest experience and support the community. Among the items in the entrance on display at the Crest are silver carved jewelry, hand-carved masks, and beaded earrings, all created by talented First Nations artists.

Looking ahead, Christopher and his team are planning additional improvements to reflect the pride the Gitxaała people and wider Prince Rupert community have in the property.

“In the short term, we’re updating our rooms to ensure we not only meet but exceed guest expectations,” he says. “We’re always exploring new ways to enhance the hotel, ensuring that both our guests and residents continue to enjoy the best service and experience in the North.”

The Gitxaała have lived on the Northwest coast for thousands of years. And, through their investments in businesses like the Crest Hotel, Saltwater Bakery and Provisions, Gitxaała Forestry, and Tyee Building Supplies, they continue to play a leading role in the local economy.

In 2024, Gitxaała Nation accessed over $2,000,000 in economic development funds through Coast Funds to support the purchase and installation of air conditioning and heat pump systems.

Explore more project investments here.