Report dated April 10, 2024 from the Director of Engineering - Island Highway and Helmcken Road Transit Corridor Classification
Staff report regarding the classification of transit corridors on Island Highway and Helmcken Road.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY A: ENHANCE LIVEABILITY

What we heard from citizens
Citizens told us they want to:
- be able to move around the community efficiently;
- have a range of housing options close to services;
- participate in community events and have a sense of belonging;
- celebrate View Royal’s unique history.

GOAL 1: Shift primary transport mode within View Royal away from vehicles to walking, cycling and transit
- 1a | Identify and implement improvements to enhance existing infrastructure that facilitates improved safe routes to schools and Walking School Bus opportunities (2023/2024 Ready Step Roll)
- 1b | Engage BC Transit to pursue commitment for a higher level of transit service, including improvements to underserviced areas, bus shelters, and specifically proposed Route 40 (UVic to Dockyard via Admirals Road/McKenzie Avenue)
- Timing: 2024-2026
- Resources: $135,000 ($45,000/yr + $800/yr operating costs)
- 1c | Undertake off-street parking review
- Timing: 2026
- Resources: $75,000
GOAL 2: Improve accessibility options
- 2a | Develop an Accessibility Plan with partners
- Timing: 2024
- Resources: $10,000 in 2024, $12,500 in 2027
GOAL 3: Access to a broad range of housing options to meet the needs of various ages, family types and incomes
- 3a | Interim Housing Needs Assessment
- Timing: 2024
- Resources: $22,500
- 3b | Develop a Housing Strategy
- Timing: 2027
- Resources: $75,000
- 3c | Establish a Tenant Assistance Policy
- Timing: 2023
- Resources: In-house
- 3d | Explore noise abatement options from TransCanada Highway

GOAL 4: Ensure proximity to services
- 4a | Work with west shore communities to develop a performing arts facility
- 4b | Update the Transportation Master Plan
- Timing: 2025
- Resources: $200,000
- 4c | Explore options for Greater Victoria Public Library services
- 4d | Undertake planning for community gathering places on Town owned lands
GOAL 5: Build strong relationships and engagement through community events and celebrations
- 5a | Engage a Communications & Engagement Coordinator to enhance current events and/or devise new community-building initiatives
- Timing: 2024
- Resources: $56,755
- 5b | Develop a Helmcken Centennial Park Master Plan
- Timing: 2026
- Resources: $55,000
- 5c | Explore bylaws to allow food trucks, entertainment, and commercial activities in public spaces
GOAL 6: Sufficient and appropriate parks and open space
- 6a | Update the Parks Master Plan
- Timing: 2026-2027
- 6b | Develop a Trails Master Plan
- Timing: 2026-2027
- 6c | Explore a partnership with the West Shore Parks & Recreation Society for programming in View Royal’s parks
- Timing: 2024
- Resources: In-house
- 6d | Explore options for a memorial cenotaph for fire, police, and military with relevant agencies for funding and location
- Timing: 2025
GOAL 7: Heritage protection
- 7a | Explore heritage designation options for historical properties in View Royal
- Timing: 2027

STRATEGIC PRIORITY B: SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

What we heard from citizens
Citizens told us they want to:
- controlled growth;
- implications of growth considered.

GOAL 1: Managed Growth
- 1a | Official Community Plan (OCP) review to align with Housing Needs Report and Zoning Bylaw, update Development Permit Area design guidelines, and other aspects of the OCP
- Timing: 2024-2025
- Resources: $100,000 in 2024, $300,000 in 2025 (scope dependent)
- 1b | Update sustainability checklist
- Timing: 2024
- Resources: In-house
GOAL 2: Increase skilled employment
- 2a | Explore attractors for primary care providers to work in View Royal
GOAL 3: Business retention/attraction
- 3a | Review potential to use tax incentives to attract business, including hotels, to View Royal
- 3b | Hold a visioning session for the employment corridor (“Western Gateway”)
- Timing: 2024-2025
- 3c | Review home-occupation business zoning regulations and licensing
- Timing: 2024
- Resources: In-house
GOAL 4: Strategic Investment in Public Realm
- 4a | Placemaking Urban Design Plan to facilitate distinct identity for View Royal’s public realm
- Timing: 2026-2027
- Resources: $50,000 ($25,000 each year)