Why should I invest in Prince Rupert?

There is an old adage for Stock Market investment; buy on the rumour, sell on the news. The majority of my previous blogs deal with the potential large scale investments that will, if they all succeed, herald a new beginning for Prince Rupert.
This blog serves as a brief summary of the facts as they stand today.

1. Prince Rupert Port Authority. Prince Rupert's new port has been a great success. In 2009, whilst every port on the West Coast of Continental North America lost volume, Prince Rupert increased theirs by 45%. The owners, Maher Terminals are already planning an expansion programme that should begin in 2011. The port has two major advantages; 38 hours closer sailing time to Asia and the third deepest natural harbour in the World.

2. Canpotex. Canpotex, a multi-billion dollar company that exports potash around the World, is considering locating a new export facility in Prince Rupert. If they choose Prince Rupert the immediate benefit to the local economy will be in construction but the real benefit is the long term employment once the site is operational. It is felt that if Canpotex chooses Prince Rupert other companies will follow.

3. Watson Island Pulp Mill. The Pulp Mill has not been operational for ten years. The City of Prince Rupert now own it and have put it up for sale for $13M. They have had six bids and are in the process of deciding which one to accept.

4. Buyer's market. Prince Rupert is still a buyer's market for Real Estate but signs are that this is changing. The amount of property on the market has decreased markedly in the last four months due to two significant factors;
the speculation has resulted in the renovation properties up to $100,000 being bought by Flippers; people are waiting for the announcements regarding these investments to be confirmed before listing their properties in order to realise a better sale price.

Conclusion: There is a best case, medium case and worst case scenario;

Best Case: All of the potential investments happen and the local Real Estate market booms.
Medium Case: Only one of the investments happen and the local Real Estate market increases substantially from its low.
Worst Case: None of the investments happen and Prince Rupert carries on as it presently is.

Opinion: There is too much interest from too many major players for Prince Rupert not to have a bright future. The fact is that if we can attract one big name the rest will assuredly follow.