Port Alberni set to star in HGTV renovation show hosted by Bryan and Sarah Baeumler.
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The Vancouver Island community of Port Alberni is set to star in a new TV show.
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The B.C. town, which is home to some 18,000 residents, was chosen from a pool of hundreds of destinations across the country that applied for the first season of Hometown Takeover Canada.
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Once a booming forestry town — Port Alberni was the site of the province’s first sawmill in 1860 — the town has seen a marked shift in its economy following the industry downturn, devastating wildfire impacts of recent years and more.
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“This is a wonderful opportunity to shine a light on the people, businesses and community spirit that make Port Alberni such a special place,” said Port Alberni Mayor Sharie Minions. “Our city is built on resilience, pride and connection, and we are thrilled to share that story with viewers across the country.”
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Westcoast Homes
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Selected from the submissions in a joint decision by Rogers Sports & Media and HGTV, the western Vancouver Island town’s handling of hardships and its resulting resilience is what made it the perfect pick for the show, according to host Bryan Baeumler.
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“It’s a community that has faced significant challenges but has never lost its determination,” Baeumler, who shares the hosting duties with his wife Sarah, said. “There is a tremendous sense of pride, resilience and entrepreneurial spirit here. When you spend time in Port Alberni, you quickly realize this isn’t a town looking for a handout — it’s a town ready for an opportunity.”
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The Canadian version of the U.S. TV series, which stars Ben and Erin Napier and is set in Laurel, Miss., the show will mirror its American predecessor. Both longtime renovation experts and TV hosts, the Baeumlers will bring their expertise overhauling homes and businesses to offer a reboot to the community that is said to be the ‘salmon capital of the world.’
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“I think people will be surprised by just how real the impact is,” says Baeumler. “Unlike a traditional renovation show where you’re transforming a single property, these projects become part of the fabric of an entire community. Viewers can actually visit the businesses, parks, public spaces and neighbourhoods they see onscreen.
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“We’ve seen firsthand in the U.S. how communities have experienced increased tourism, new business investment and renewed civic pride after participating in the show.”
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The potential ripple effect, he notes, can be “enormous.”
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Reached by Postmedia News by email, hometown host Ben Napier says being a part of the revitalization of small towns has been a dream come true for the couple.
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“And now Sarah and Bryan get to experience that magic,” he said.
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