Transportation Master Plan: Implementation

At its May 25, 2026 meeting, Council directed staff to report back with revised design options and costs for the planned Phillips Road–Throup Road connection. No final construction decision has been made.

The upcoming report, anticipated by the end of June 2026, will compare three possible road widths for the CP5 section between Charters Road and Phillips Road: 15.2 metres, 20 metres, and 25 metres. Council is reviewing these options to better understand potential cost savings, design trade-offs, and impacts on transportation features such as sidewalks, pathways, drainage, utilities, landscaping, and future upgrades.

The full corridor project, including CP4, CP5, and CP6, is currently estimated at about $50 million. Council is also considering whether the work could be built together or phased over time. For borrowing on this scale, elector approval would be required. Council has indicated its preferred approach would be a referendum, and also discussed the possibility of a non-binding plebiscite to better understand community views.

More information is available at sooke.ca/news.

The District of Sooke invites residents to explore a new interactive StoryMap showing how the Transportation Master Plan and Parks and Trails Master Plan are being brought to life across the community.

Through maps, photos and project information, the StoryMap highlights improvements that support travel in all forms, including stronger trail connections, better access to parks, and more options for walking, cycling, rolling, taking transit and driving.

Residents can see where projects are happening and how they are helping build a more connected, accessible and active Sooke.

Explore the StoryMap here!

A staff report will be presented to Council, at the May 25, 2026 Regular Council meeting, outlining next steps for the Throup/Phillips Connector project, including the current scope of CP4, CP5 and CP6 as identified in the Transportation Master Plan. Staff will seek Council direction on how to continue advancing the project.

See the report, in the related agenda, at sooke.ca/meetings.

The opening of the Little River (DeMamiel Creek) Pedestrian Crossing and Multi-Use Trail marks an important step in implementing Sooke’s Climate Action Plan by making it easier for residents to choose active transportationfor short local trips.

The new crossing links the Sunriver neighbourhood, local schools and Sooke’s town core through a 600-metre forested trail, creating a more direct alternative to the previous four-kilometre route along Highway 14. The project adds a new connection within Sooke’s active transportation network and supports walking, routes to school, recreation and access to nature.

This kind of infrastructure directly supports the goals of Sooke's Climate Action Plan, which calls on the community to rethink how we move, enjoy more time closer to home, strengthen local connection and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Sooke is working toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and 100% by 2050.

By providing a safe, scenic and convenient route between neighbourhoods, schools and community amenities, the Little River Crossing helps make walking a more practical option for everyday movement. It also supports a more connected community by giving residents, students and families an alternative to travelling by vehicle for some local trips.

The project reflects several climate action themes:

• Active transportation - How We Move: The trail supports walking and everyday travel, helping residents make lower-carbon choices for short trips.
• Complete, connected communities - How We Grow: By linking Sunriver, schools and the town core, the crossing brings key destinations closer together and supports more local movement.
• Connection to nature - How We Relate: The forested trail, ravine and creek setting offer residents a way to move through the community while experiencing the natural environment that shapes Sooke’s identity.
• Learning and stewardship - How We Relate: Interpretive signage and Coast Salish art are integrated along the route, reflecting the history and ongoing relationship to place. The project also creates opportunities for students and families to learn from the forest, river and surrounding environment.
• Partnership and long-term planning - How We Lead: Originally identified through the District’s Parks and Trails Master Plan and supported by community advocates and advisory groups, the project demonstrates how long-term planning, partnership and investment can advance climate action in practical, community-focused ways.

Together, these benefits show that climate action is not only about emissions targets. It is also about creating a community where people can safely and conveniently move between the places they live, learn, work and gather — while staying connected to the natural environment.

Residents are invited to experience the Little River Crossing respectfully and thoughtfully, and to continue following Climate Action Plan implementation updates on this page.

Elder Jackie offers a blessing during the opening of the Little River Crossing on May 15, 2026.

At the November 24, 2025 Regular Council Meeting, Council received the Transportation Master Plan (TMP) Mid-Point Review for information.

Originally adopted in 2020, the TMP serves as a long-term guide for how the District plans, builds, and manages transportation infrastructure. It aligns with the Parks and Trails Master Plan and reflects extensive community input gathered during development.

The TMP is guided by a vision of a connected, safe, and accessible transportation network that supports a healthy, vibrant, and sustainable Sooke. Its goals focus on expanding travel options, improving connectivity, supporting sustainability, strengthening the local economy, ensuring balanced investment, and fostering partnerships.

Progress to Date
Since 2020, the District has made steady progress across all five focus areas:

• Walking + Rolling
• Cycling
• Public Transit
• Complete Streets
• New Mobility + Integration

Key achievements include updates to development standards and the advancement of complete streets projects. Several major capital projects have also been completed, such as:

• Charters Road and Church Road streetscape improvements
• Otter Point Road upgrades
• Church/Throup roundabout
• Brailsford Place connection

What’s Underway
Ongoing work includes:

• Planning for a future transit exchange on Wadams Way
• Advancing accessible infrastructure through external funding
• Improving pedestrian connections through development
• Major projects like the Throup Road extension and Phillips Road active transportation upgrades

Looking Ahead
Remaining projects will continue to guide transportation planning over the next 5–10 years. A full update to the TMP will be considered near the end of its lifecycle to refresh priorities and respond to evolving community needs.

This mid-point review highlights the significant progress made so far and reaffirms the TMP as a key tool in shaping Sooke’s transportation future.

The District of Sooke is pleased to announce that progress continues on the much-anticipated Little River Crossing Project. At the September 23rd Council meeting, Sooke Council authorized the issuance of the Development Permit for the construction of a multi-use trail and bridge that will greatly enhance connectivity within the community. The new trail and bridge will connect Sunriver Way by Poirier Elementary School, facilitating pedestrian travel between Sooke’s Town Core and the Sunriver Neighbourhood.

“This project marks an exciting step forward in the development of Sooke's trail system,” said Mayor Maja Tait. “It reflects our commitment to creating a walkable, connected community while protecting and enhancing our natural environment, and providing alternative means to get around Sooke to lessen reliance on Highway 14.”

The Little River Crossing will not only provide a safe and scenic route for pedestrians and cyclists but also encourage outdoor activity and ease transportation challenges by offering a sustainable, active transportation option. The multi-use trail and bridge design is part of the District’s broader vision for enhancing local infrastructure and supporting community health, safety, and mobility. It will transform an approximately 8-kilometre round trip on Highway 14, often travelled by vehicle, to an approximate 1.2-kilometre walk or wheel route.

Key Tentative Project Milestones:

• August 2024: Receive Agricultural Land Commission (ALR) decision - COMPLETE
• September 2024 – Obtain approvals and finalize design.
• Fall 2024 – Invitation to Tender posted
• December 2024 – Award construction contract
• January 2025 to February 2025 – Site preparation (in advance of bird nesting season March to June).
• Spring 2025 – Trail and boardwalk construction begins
• August 1 to September 15, 2025 – Bridge and instream works conducted around fisheries window.
• Fall 2025 – Substantial completion.

Further updates on the project timeline will be shared as the project advances.

To learn more about the project’s history, please visit:

• Little River (Demamiel Creek) Pedestrian Crossing (sooke.ca)

At the 2024 Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) Convention, Mayor Maja Tait and Sooke Council, along with Chief Administrative Officer Raechel Gray, continued to advocate for significant transportation improvements to address concerns in our community. As Sooke transitions from a bedroom community to a dynamic and growing region, Council is keenly aware of the increasing pressures on the transportation network.

A key focus of the advocacy efforts at UBCM has been securing further support for Highway 14 improvements, expanding public transit services, and exploring alternative routes to relieve traffic congestion. Council also emphasized the importance of multi-modal transportation options, such as cycling and walking pathways, and is pushing for initiatives that align with Sooke’s evolving needs. These advocacy efforts are part of an ongoing commitment to ensure that Sooke’s infrastructure evolves with its population growth and economic development.

“Transportation remains one of our highest priorities,” said Mayor Tait. “Council has been persistent in our conversations with the Province and other levels of government to advocate for the resources and support needed to address the concerns we’re hearing from residents. We’re committed to finding lasting solutions that will manage our growth and improve connectivity for all.”

The District appreciates the community’s patience and adaptability during this period of transition. With sustained advocacy from Council, alongside the support of the public and multiple levels of government, meaningful improvements are on the horizon. Together, we are working toward a more efficient and sustainable transportation future for Sooke.

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.

Crews have made steady progress on the Charters Road project. Recent efforts focused on wall block installation, extending the west wall further to the north. Work is also continuing on the underground servicing, including the installation of storm mains and fire hydrant stations. Although much of this work is out of sight, it plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and resilience of our community once the road is complete.

As of now, the project remains on schedule, with the anticipated reopening of Charters Road set for the end of October 2024.

As CAO Raechel Gray shared in her August 30th update and at the September 9th Council meeting, the District explored the possibility of opening Charters Road to single-lane alternating traffic or conducting night work over the summer. Unfortunately, early cost estimates and a high potential for project delays, combined with concerns about labour shortages and adapting site safety for both crews and the public, made these options unfeasible. As a result, the focus remains on reaching substantial completion by the scheduled date of October 31, 2024, to help ease traffic congestion as soon as possible.

We appreciate your ongoing patience as this important work continues.

Related:

• • August 30, 2024: Community Update, August 1, 2024: Charters Road Construction Project
  • August 1, 2024: Community Update, August 1, 2024: Charters Road Construction Project
  • July 18, 2024: Community Update, July 18, 2024: Charters Road Construction Project
  • July 17, 2024: Update on Transportation Infrastructure and Traffic Concerns from the District of Sooke Chief Administrative Officer, Raechel Gray
  • June 27, 2024: Community Update, June 27, 2024: Charters Road Construction Project
  • June 13, 2024: Community Update, June 13, 2024: Charters Road Construction Project
  • June 12, 2024: Rock Crusher Mobilizing on Nearby Property Alongside Charters Road Construction
  • June 5, 2024: June Mayoral Message: Addressing Traffic Challenges and Enhancing Community Infrastructure in Sooke
  • May 31, 2024: Statement on Charters Road Closure and Highway 14 Congestion Resulting from this Project
  • May 23, 2024: Closure of Charters Road in Sooke for Essential Infrastructure Upgrades: May 27, 2024 until October 2024

Photos – Storm line and understand hydrant installations:

To date, crews have been working diligently and putting in long hours completing all utility connections including a major water main and sanitary force main installation while constructing 2 significant retaining walls in unison with bringing Charters Road towards final road grade elevations. The District worked in unison with the contractor ensuring that road construction materials were produced on site, avoiding any potential delays that could have been realized. As a positive result, there have been no unforeseen delays that have occurred to date and the project remains on schedule.

Now that elevations of the project have approached road sub-grade elevations for Charters Road, the significant remaining works include placement of road sub-grade / base materials, shallow utilities, concrete curb & sidewalk, surface storm utility installations, final grading & compaction, asphalt paving, as well as installation of fabricated safety railings and light standards. Over the last few weeks, staff worked with the contractors to confirm the possibility of a single lane opening in September or night work being completed as a way to accelerate the project. As most of the final works are sub-contracted works and span the extent of the roadway, these works must be completed during the day under full closure. Keeping the job site safe and the project on or ahead of schedule are the District’s top priorities.

We are empathetic and understand the impacts of closing and reconstructing one of the major collector corridors in the District; however, the reconstruction of Charters Road will not only address public safety issues but will complete one of the key projects identified in the District’s Transportation Master Plan.

While substantial completion and opening of Charters is targeted for end of October, the District will continue to work diligently with the prime contractor and sub-contractors to explore any options to potentially expedite this opening schedule of Charter Road through the remaining stages of the project.

We appreciate the public's patience while we bring this critical corridor project to substantial completion.

Related:

• August 1, 2024: Community Update, August 1, 2024: Charters Road Construction Project
• July 18, 2024: Community Update, July 18, 2024: Charters Road Construction Project
• July 17, 2024: Update on Transportation Infrastructure and Traffic Concerns from the District of Sooke Chief Administrative Officer, Raechel Gray
• June 27, 2024: Community Update, June 27, 2024: Charters Road Construction Project
• June 13, 2024: Community Update, June 13, 2024: Charters Road Construction Project
• June 12, 2024: Rock Crusher Mobilizing on Nearby Property Alongside Charters Road Construction
• June 5, 2024: June Mayoral Message: Addressing Traffic Challenges and Enhancing Community Infrastructure in Sooke
• May 31, 2024: Statement on Charters Road Closure and Highway 14 Congestion Resulting from this Project
• May 23, 2024: Closure of Charters Road in Sooke for Essential Infrastructure Upgrades: May 27, 2024 until October 2024
• Resource: Navigating Sooke: Transforming Traffic Challenges into Solutions