Victoria, BC– The Capital Regional District (CRD) is undertaking a Southern Gulf Islands Transportation Integration Plan for the Southern Gulf Islands Electoral Area. The project goal is to develop a plan for an integrated transportation service that includes walking and cycling networks, viable public transit options, and passenger ferries to supplement travel on and between the islands.
“We are excited to engage with stakeholders, service providers, and members of the public on this important project,” said Dave Howe, Electoral Area Director for the Southern Gulf Islands (SGI). “This study will cost out options for a possible new service that will improve mobility in our communities and provide real alternatives to single occupancy, fossil fuel vehicles in the region.”
The CRD has engaged Watt Consulting Group to oversee the project and develop options for a service that would enable new transportation opportunities on and between Galiano, Mayne, Saturna, and North and South Pender Islands, the largest islands in the electoral area with links to Salt Spring Island and Sidney on Vancouver Island.
The CRD is working directly with community groups and stakeholders to build on past studies and consider a new service that advances community goals of sustainability, livability, and mobility throughout the region. As the project moves farther into the summer and fall—and as the impacts of COVID lessen—there will be further opportunities for all citizens to contribute to community mapping and shape recommendations.
By developing options for a transportation service that is community-based, the CRD will help plan for future infrastructure funding opportunities in a way that is coordinated, right-sized for the islands, provides value for money, and achieves priority objectives.
For more information on the project and to sign up for email updates, visit www.crd.bc.ca/sgi-transportation or contact Justine Starke, Manager, SGI Service Delivery (CRD) at 250.360.3275.
Proud to be recognized as one of BC’s Top Employers and Canada’s Greenest Employers, the CRD delivers regional, sub-regional and local services to 13 municipalities and three electoral areas on southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. Governed by a 24-member Board of Directors, the CRD works collaboratively with First Nations and all levels of government to enable sustainable growth, foster community well-being, and develop cost-effective infrastructure while continuing to provide core services to residents throughout the region. Visit us online at www.crd.bc.ca.
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For media inquiries, please contact:
Andy Orr, Senior Manager
CRD Corporate Communications
Tel: 250.360.3229
Cell: 250.216.5492