September Project Update: Next steps
Over the past month, the project team has been focused on refining the project and alternate service plans, and incorporating key feedback gathered from the community. This feedback has helped shape important adjustments aimed at addressing the community's priorities and concerns. As we move forward, we are committed to ensuring that the revised plans better serve the needs of our customers.
What we heard, and how we are responding:
Shift in Closure Period: We heard from the community the concern over the proposed timing of the closure, including the unreliable weather and increased possibilities for water taxi cancellations. In response to the feedback received, we have adjusted the closure period from originally starting in January to now beginning in February. Based on historical patterns, it is expected that the weather will be better in the later winter months, resulting in fewer expected sailing cancellations and improved service reliability. In addition, during this planned time period, passenger volumes continue to be lower.
Previous planned closure: January – March
Adjusted planned closure: February - April
Improved Access to Medical Services: During the engagement customers shared their feedback about access to required medical services. To ensure this concern is addressed we are taking the following actions:
- Connecting with Island Health to ensure they have what they need to plan for service.
- Developing a procedure to address customer needs to move their car for unexpected essential needs.
- Develop contingencies for those not able to travel by water taxi for essential purposes
Connections for Essential Services: This has been a key concern, and we’ve prioritized logistics to reduce potential disruptions including working with commercial customers on schedules and timing to ensure food deliveries and other essential goods continue to be available to those on Cortes Island.
Improved Travel Supports: Recognizing the need for better transportation options to and from Mansons Landing, as well as once arriving in Campbell River, we’ve expanded the plan to provide more travel options. This adjustment will help facilitate the movement of people and goods between these locations more efficiently.
Part of this plan includes collaborating with local partners who know and understand the needs of their community and providing funding opportunities to local groups or businesses that can provide on island transportation or in Campbell River throughout the project.
For the second phase of the project, which is expected to take place between March – April, we will re-open the berth at Whaletown, and offer direct service between Cortes Island and Campbell River. We heard clearly from the community this was the preferred option.
Next Steps and timeline for decisions
September – November:
As part of the next steps in this process, we have submitted a report to the BC Ferry Commissioner who will review the plans and provide a decision authorizing the project to move forward with the alternate service plan.
During this time, we will be continuing our conversations with the community, including conversations with the neighbours at Heriot Bay Terminal, health services, and commercial users.
November - December:
Later this fall we will be coming back out to community to provide an update on the project and the alternate service plans.
We are grateful for the input provided and as we progress we will be providing project updates on this page. You can subscribe to receive these updates via email by clicking 'Subscribe' on the right hand side of the page.