September 17, 2024 Statement Regarding Charters Road Construction Project Status

The District of Sooke is pleased to provide an update on the Charters Road construction as the project is set to reach a significant milestone, paving, this week! However, while this is a significant step forward provided favourable weather remains, coordination with subcontractors and requirements to ensure a safe site for crews and the public means a continued closure will be in effect. The District, along with the project contractor, Hazelwood Construction, shares the community’s desire to see this project completed in a timely manner.

Over the summer, the District explored multiple options to expedite the work, including the potential for a modified reopening. While this option could not be guaranteed, our commitment to keeping the project on or ahead of the end of October schedule remains.

The safety of both the public and construction crews is our top priority, and we will not compromise the quality or integrity of the work. District staff continue to collaborate closely with Hazelwood Construction to ensure that all subcontractor work progresses efficiently. We are also prepared to introduce additional measures, such as enhanced traffic control, to support a partial reopening of the road—provided it does not delay the overall project.

As we have stated throughout the project, should an opportunity arise to reopen Charters Road earlier than originally scheduled, we will act on it. This commitment remains unchanged.

While paving is in progress, subcontractors will not have access to the site, so subsequent work will follow once paving is finished.

Jeff Stevens, Project Manager with Hazelwood Construction has expressed satisfaction with the progress to date, stating, “We’re pleased that a project of this complexity remains on schedule. We will continue to coordinate with the District to provide updated communications after paving is complete and more definitive options for reopening are available.”

Additionally, Mayor Maja Tait and members of Council, along with Chief Administrative Officer Raechel Gray, are attending the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) Convention in Vancouver to advocate on several key transportation issues for our community, including:

1. Expedited and Increased Transit Services to Sooke: Advocacy for swift implementation of the Sooke Local Area Transit Plan, focusing on increased service hours.
2. Vision for Highway 14 and Current Transportation Issues: Advocacy for the next phase of Highway 14 upgrades, and efforts to reduce congestion and improve the quality of life for residents through Highway 14 improvements.
3. Infrastructure Funding for the Transportation Master Plan (TMP): Seeking funding to build out critical internal road networks, support transit, and promote active transportation, reducing car dependency.
4. Co-working Hub Initiative: Advocacy for the creation of a co-working hub in Sooke to support economic development and remote workers.

For further updates, please follow the District of Sooke’s official communication channels, including our website and electronic newsletter. You can also reach us by phone at 250.642.1634 or email at info@sooke.ca.