Central Saanich Invites Community Input on New Pathway Design

Central Saanich has launched a community consultation to gather feedback on the design of a new multi-use pathway that will connect Highway 17 with Saanichton Village. This initiative is part of the district’s commitment to enhancing active transportation, as outlined in the 2021 Active Transportation Plan. The project is divided into three phases, with the first phase completed last year, linking Lochside Drive to the Lochside Regional Trail.

Phase two of the project aims to create a connection between Saanichton Village, the trail, and the Tsawout First Nation, along with nearby neighborhoods. Current designs for this phase feature a new pathway along Mount Newton Cross Road that stretches from Highway 17 to East Saanich Road. The district has developed three different design concepts, each differing in the path’s location on either the south or north side of Mount Newton Cross Road and its separation distance from vehicle traffic. The estimated costs for these designs range from $4.8 million to $5.7 million.

Construction for this phase is anticipated to begin as early as 2027 or 2028. Community members are encouraged to review the proposed designs and share their thoughts via a print and online feedback form, which will remain open until February 16, 2024.

To facilitate further engagement, Central Saanich has organized several public events. A New Year Open House is scheduled for January 24 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Fire Hall, located at 1512 Keating Cross Road. Additionally, a project-specific information session will occur on February 1 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Central Saanich Municipal Hall, located at 1903 Mount Newton Cross Road.

In late February, the Central Saanich council plans to review the collected feedback along with input from the Tsawout First Nation and the Saanich Peninsula Accessibility Advisory Committee.

For more information about the project and to participate in the feedback process, community members can visit LetsTalkCentralSaanich.ca/MountNewtonPathway.