Port Alberni could benefit from the Kinder Morgan pipeline project. Michael Lowry with the Western Canada Marine Response Corporation says the company is planning to build a base for oil spill equipment including barges, boats and skimmers, and hire between 15 and 20 full time staff. “I think it is a very positive development for Port Alberni,” states Lowry. “It’s our attempt to address the risks that are coming out of that project.” Lowry says major bases would be based in Port Alberni and Nanaimo, with smaller units in Sidney, Beecher Bay, and Ucluelet. “We are looking at close to about $200 million in investments and adding about 115 people to our organization with the enhancements that come with this project.” Lowry says the costs will be paid for by Kinder Morgan and the shipping companies. The facilities should be operational by early 2018.