Victoria, BC– The Capital Regional District (CRD) Board has approved Bylaw No. 4630 to establish a new Regional Transportation Service (RTS). The bylaw has been adopted after receiving elector assent through a regional Alternative Approval Process (AAP). With a growing population and more residents travelling across municipal boundaries to access work and leisure, a transportation service is needed to support a more connected and efficient regional transportation system.
“A regional approach will improve connectivity across municipalities, strengthen coordination, and ensure our transportation system can meet future needs. A more coordinated system also means better and more accessible travel experiences, whether by walking, bike, bus, or car” said Cliff McNeil-Smith, CRD Board Chair. Dean Murdock, Chair of the CRD Transportation Committee added “one cohesive voice on transportation will better attract provincial and federal investments, ensuring our communities receive the infrastructure they need.”
The new service will create a unified regional transportation vision, develop new programs, expand data and analysis, coordinate regional policies, and manage regional trails and infrastructure. The first step following the service establishment is to integrate existing transportation functions under one umbrella, including transportation planning functions and regional trails management. The new service will develop a new long-term Regional Transportation Plan to identify regional transportation priorities.
The CRD will continue to work with residents, First Nations, local governments, and transportation providers on the management and planning of regional trails and transportation networks, ensuring they continue to serve as vital, well-maintained connections as the region continues to grow.
For more information on the Regional Transportation Service visit www.crd.ca/transportation.
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 government partners 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.ca.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Andy Orr, Senior Manager
CRD Corporate Communications
Tel: 250.360.3229
Cell: 250.216.5492
