Rationale for Island Highway Change
Arguments supporting the transformation of Island Highway into a town centre.
RATIONALE
This road no longer qualifies as highway. Already rush hour commuters mock the name. We can no longer afford to maintain a commuter road that primarily benefits outside interests.
The name change idea had been debated and rejected by Council a few years ago. But this was before focus to reduce GHGs, the Active Transportation Plan, rapid transit, significant approved density and MUCH more coming in provincial decree.
Like the Vic West village, a town centre with walkable services, parks and amenities can only be achieved when the commuter traffic congestion, speeds and dangers are effectively addressed.
The regional transportation plan must recognize that our community also needs a thriving village concept like Sidney, Vic West, Oak Bay, Esquimalt Centre, Cook Street, Goldstream Village etc.
The cost of the name change can come from Gas Tax reserves and provincial funding to compensate for the regional housing densification.
Collectively the Westshore is working to keep services, amenities, recreation, arts / culture and post-secondary education so residents can work / play / recreate / learn without the travel through View Royal.
The name change happen quickly before the 400+ residents come to live along this corridor (each of these becoming a cost to name change)
The Province’s housing decree creates challenging affordability and capacity issues. As the status quo for single family lots is passe, so too is a highway through high density neighbourhoods. Further, a strong diversified commercial centre is required to keep the ratio of residential / business tax base.
The town will always welcome regional residents / visitors and tourists into our community. The road is not closed. It is open for business with the respect, ambiance, speed and safety conducive to enable thriving walkable services.
Councillor John Rogers January 3, 2024