July 18, 2023

Town of Sidney Council Meeting Highlights: July 17, 2023

Sidney, BC;

Highlights from regular Council meetings provide a brief summary of some items of broad public interest. The summary is not inclusive of all agenda items. Please refer to www.www.sidney.ca for the full agenda, minutes, and webcast.

Sidney’s first Active Transportation Plan approved with revisions reflecting community input

Following multiple public engagement and review periods, Council has approved Sidney’s first Active Transportation Plan. The plan, developed by consultant Urban Systems, makes practical recommendations for the next 10 years with a series of actions to help people feel more comfortable making active transportation, like walking, cycling, and travelling by motorized scooter, a part of their lifestyle. Some priority projects include the development of new sidewalks, improved crosswalks, and bicycle boulevards in key locations, identified in part through community input.

Projects will be considered each year during the financial planning process. Council has indicated a willingness to consider an average annual investment of $1 million for active transportation projects. Approximately 50% of costs associated with the development of the plan were funded by a BC Active Transportation Network Plan Grant.

Staff Report
Video (2:22:34) 

Council sponsors South Island Powwow and makes plans to create fund for Indigenous initiatives and events

In recognition of the third annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Council will be providing a $5,000 sponsorship to the South Island Powwow to be held at Victoria’s Royal Athletic Park on September 30th. Acknowledging that throughout the year there are events and initiatives in the region that help preserve First Nations culture and support reconciliation, Council resolved to create an annual budget of $10,000 beginning in 2024 for related opportunities.

Sponsorship Request Letter
Video (3:30:43) 

Council approves detour around Beacon West roundabout site during upcoming phase of construction

To safely undertake construction of the Beacon West Avenue roundabout, Council approved a 4-6 week daytime closure of Beacon Avenue West, east of Galaran Road, during the next phase of the project, which is likely to begin in mid-to-late August. To minimize the impacts of this closure, the new Stirling Way will be fully constructed in advance of this work to allow drivers to take a short detour around the site.
Emergency vehicles and residents in the immediate vicinity will continue to have access to the area during the closure. Information about upcoming traffic changes will be shared on the project’s website. Traffic pattern changes will also be shared through on-site signage and social media as they occur.

Staff Report
Video (2:39:54)

Media Contact:

Mayor Cliff McNeil-Smith
Town of Sidney
250-656-1139
mayor@sidney.ca