Transportation Master Plan: Implementation

Crews are continuing the installation of the retaining wall and raising the road. Throughout this process, crews are backfilling and compacting the surfacing before a new layer is applied. Additionally, geo-grid materials are being used for the rows of wall blocks to ensure structural integrity.

The first 10 (of 19) rows of wall blocks have been installed, again with backfilling and compacting as road elevation continues. Preparation for essential utility relocation is nearing completion, and utility crews are scheduled to mobilize in early September.

After water, sewer and storm mains are installed additional layer of road base will be applied, before paving can occur.

Project Status

At this time, the project remains on schedule with Charters Road anticipated to reopen by the end of October 2024.

Current Congestion

The District is monitoring traffic flow and sees peak delays most commonly reaching 18 minutes around 5:30 pm. on Highway 14 approaching the Sooke town core. Traffic delays are greater leading into the weekend, and the most optimal evening travel times appear to be after 6 pm.

On July 17, 2024, CAO Gray provided an “Update on Transportation Infrastructure and Traffic Concerns,” highlighting our dedication to developing short, medium, and long-term solutions for our transportation needs. Our team is facing these challenges head-on and is committed to realizing effective solutions. Key points from this update include:

• Charters Road Project: We are committed to keeping this project on schedule, if not ahead of schedule, as a short-term solution to our transportation challenges.
• Throup Road Connector and Phillips Road Corridor: We are finalizing the design of these projects to update costs should Council decide to proceed with a referendum on borrowing funds.
• Highway 14 Improvements: Our engineering staff has initiated dialogue with provincial staff to explore a dedicated westbound transit and right-turn lane along the corridor from the Sooke River Bridge to Church Road.
• Contracted Engineer Engagement: To further support our efforts, we are engaging a contracted engineer to focus on alternative solutions not identified in the Transportation Master Plan. They will also help quantify the return on investments to prioritize actions appropriately.

In sharing this update on Charters Road, the District is reminding residents to please complete the 2025 Budget Survey, which invites feedback on traffic solutions. The survey remains open until August 25, 2024.

We appreciate the community's patience and cooperation as we work to improve our infrastructure. We will continue to provide updates to keep the community informed about our progress.

Related:

• 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

Photos: Retaining wall construction through various stages over the last two weeks:

We are pleased to report significant progress on the Charters Road Construction Project since our last update on June 13th.

Since June 13th, the rock crusher has been operational at a neighbouring site to ensure a steady supply of materials. To further streamline operations, additional crushing days have been scheduled for July 2 and 3, from 7 am to 7pm. This approach is reducing the reliance on trucking of an estimated 800 dump trucks of material during this phase, alleviating congestion and potential project delays. While specific time savings are yet to be confirmed, the project team remains optimistic about achieving efficiencies.

All sections of the culvert have been placed. Currently, crews are backfilling around the culvert, with plans underway to redirect the temporary creek bypass system in the near future.

Crews continue to prepare for the structural wall, which will include the removal of any existing unsuitable ground material.

The project team continues to collaborate closely with environmental experts to ensure that all work adheres to environmental regulations and minimizes impact on local ecosystems.

Thank you for your ongoing patience as we work to enhance Charters Road. We remain dedicated to delivering a high-quality result that benefits the entire community.

We will continue to keep you informed. The next project update is scheduled for Thursday, July 11, 2024.

Related:

• 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

The District is pleased to offer this update on the Charters Road construction project:

The Charters Road project is progressing well through this early phase of the current construction period. With preparatory work, including excavation, being carried out in collaboration with environmental and cultural stakeholders to align with the fisheries window the project is currently on schedule. While unforeseen circumstances are more common than anyone would like with construction projects, mobilization at the site to coordinate works that can only occur during the fisheries window is on track!

One of the significant milestones achieved in recent days is rerouting some of the underground infrastructure, such as sewer services. This less visible aspect of our infrastructure is essential to maintain smooth operations.

Starting today, a rock crusher is positioning on a neighbouring property. This will bring several benefits to the community! It means we can reduce the number of dump trucks traveling through Sooke and lessens a few more vehicles travelling on Highway 14 and local roads. Plus, it saves time and resources by bringing materials directly to the construction site. While it’s too early for us to confirm this can progress works more quickly, it’s a welcome consideration.

Looking ahead, the next phase of construction involves work in the stream. This phase can only happen between June 15 and September 15 to protect sensitive habitats, so it’s crucial that the project team is ready to meet these milestones. Over the next two weeks, the team is working towards:

• removing the old culvert and installing a new box culvert.
• completing in-stream construction work to prepare for wall installation.

The District is committed to keeping the community informed about the progress of this critical infrastructure project and efforts to rebuild Charters Road. The next update will be provided on Thursday, June 27, 2024.

Related:

• 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

In hopes of expediting construction timelines on Charters Road, a rock crusher is mobilizing on private property adjacent to the project site. This measure aims to reduce the time transporting materials to the construction site and, as a result, potentially construction timelines.

Coordinating material mobilization with key project milestones means this work will commence in the coming days, as early as tomorrow. Inevitably, this will overlap with school and fastball season. However, the District has proactively contacted these area stakeholders to balance the impacts as best as possible, acknowledging the greater benefit for the community.

“We recognize the inconvenience this project is causing on many levels,” says Chief Administrative Officer Raechel Gray. “Our team is actively exploring available options to keep the Charters Road construction on track, striving to exceed deadlines if at all feasible. However, unforeseen circumstances are a reality in construction. Nonetheless, we remain dedicated to advancing the Transportation Master Plan in collaboration with various stakeholders, ultimately enhancing travel to and within Sooke.”

The rock crushing will produce loud, continuous noise during the following hours, with a break from approximately 11:30 am to 12:30 pm, from June 13^th to 28^th, with some exclusions:

• 7 am to 7 pm, Monday to Thursday
• 7 am to 4 pm, Friday

No crushing will occur on June 24^th or 25^th and modified hours will be in place on June 26^th, with crushing occurring from 7 am to 11 am. Hours will extend on Friday, June 28^th until 7 pm.

Water will be used to manage dust and debris.

This operation is made possible through the cooperation between the private property owner and Hazelwood Construction.

Related:

• May 23, 2024: https://sooke.ca/closure-of-charters-road-in-sooke-for-essential-infrastructure-upgrades-may-27-2024-until-october-2024/
• May 31, 2024: https://sooke.ca/statement-on-charters-road-closure-and-highway-14-congestion-resulting-from-this-project/
• June 5, 2024: https://sooke.ca/june-mayoral-message-addressing-traffic-challenges-and-enhancing-community-infrastructure-in-sooke/
• Updated June 6, 2024: https://sooke.ca/district-services/departments/engineering/transportation-master-planning-projects/

The District of Sooke is announcing the temporary closure of Charters Road from Golledge Avenue to Throup Roads to facilitate crucial infrastructure upgrades from Monday, May 27, 2024 until (approximately) October 2024. The closure is necessary for the placement of a culvert and structural repairs, along with the addition of sidewalks and bike lanes, aimed at enhancing safety for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. The timing of the culvert placement and subsequent works around Throup Creek accommodate the fisheries window, ensuring minimal disruption to the local ecosystem.

During this phase of the project, residents will still have access to Charters Road from Golledge Avenue and Throup Roads; however, through traffic on Charters Road will be redirected.

In collaboration with School District 62, parking accommodations have been secured for ball season attendees. The parking lot at Journey Middle School will be available for public use on weekday evenings and weekends.

Mayor Maja Tait remarked, "These repairs are long overdue. While disruption during construction is inevitable, the upcoming improvements will significantly enhance safety for our community."

Efforts will be made to expedite the construction process while adhering to budgetary constraints if at all possible. Although the current target for road reopening is the end of October, potential delays due to unforeseen circumstances are acknowledged, as are less likely opportunities to more rapidly progress works. The District of Sooke will provide updates to the community regarding any changes to the timeline.

More About the Fisheries Window

During construction projects, particularly those involving waterways or areas near aquatic ecosystems, fisheries windows are designated periods during which certain activities are restricted or regulated to minimize impact on fish populations and their habitats.

Fisheries windows are typically timed to align with critical periods in the lifecycle of fish species, such as spawning or migration seasons. These periods are carefully determined based on scientific research and provincial regulations to ensure the protection of fish populations and their habitats.

Community Contact:
District of Sooke Reception
Tel: 250.642.1634
Email: info@sooke.ca

On Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at 1pm, Council through Cpmmittee of the Whole, will participate in a Workshop on the TMP cross sections.

The primary objective of the workshop is to facilitate a discussion on the application of the District's Transportation Master Plan, particularly focusing on cross sections for local roads. The insights and direction provided by the Council will guide staff in preparing updates to the revised Subdivision and Development Standards Bylaw (SDSB). These amendments are intended to enhance consistency and contextual appropriateness in cross-section application, particularly when road frontage improvement works are necessitated by developments.

Agenda:

1. Introduction to TMP Logistics and Development Standards: Understanding the relationship between TMPs, standards, and development requirements.
2. Exploring Cross-Sections: Defining their significance and purpose within the TMP.
3. Background of the District's TMP: Reviewing the factors that shaped the Transportation Master Plan and its reflection in cross-sections.
4. Aligning with Best Practices: Assessing how TMP cross-sections align with industry best practices.
5. Challenges and Solutions: Identifying challenges faced by Sooke in applying the TMP to the SDSB and discussing potential solutions.
6. Community Engagement: Involving the community to gather insights and perspectives on potential changes.
7. Next Steps: Determining desired actions and outlining the path forward.

The District of Sooke is pleased to announce the substantial completion of the Church/Throup Roundabout, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing development of our transportation infrastructure.

While the roundabout is open to traffic, we recognize that there are still some deficiencies to be addressed, including landscaping enhancements. Over the coming weeks, our team will work with contractors to ensure that these final touches are completed to the highest standards, further enhancing the aesthetic appeal and functionality of this intersection.

The completion of the Church/Throup Roundabout is just one step in our commitment to implementing the initiatives outlined in the District of Sooke's Transportation Master Plan. Looking ahead, we are excited to announce the next phases of plan implementation as captured during the 2024 budget process, which include:

Design Phase (2024):

• Charters South
• Throup Connector
• Phillips Connector
• Ella Road

Current Projects Identified for 2025:

• Charters Road North (2024-2025 build-out)
• Charters Corridor South (2025)
• Charters + Hwy 14 Intersection (2025)
• Ella Road (2025)
• Throup Road Design (Charters to Church/Throup Roundabout)

Pending funding, we are also planning for the building out of the Thorup Road Connector, scheduled for 2026-2027. Additionally, in 2027, we aim to commence the construction of the Phillips Road Connector Project, further enhancing connectivity and accessibility within our community.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the residents for their understanding and cooperation throughout the construction period. We are committed to continuing our efforts to enhance transportation infrastructure in Sooke for the benefit of all.

The District of Sooke is seeking community input on proposed additions and improvements to crosswalks with pedestrian flashing lights on local roads within our community. This initiative, funded through the District’s Climate Action Program, aims to enhance pedestrian safety and accessibility, as well as reduce carbon emissions by promoting active transportation options.

Community members are encouraged to participate in the consultation process by providing feedback on potential crosswalk locations and pedestrian safety concerns. Input can be submitted ONLINE or by phone at 250.642.1634 until May 15, 2024.

The project is a part of the District’s ongoing efforts to prioritize pedestrian safety and foster community resilience. Please note that the scope of this project is limited to the District’s local roads (it excludes Highway 14).

For more information and to stay up to date on the implementation of Sooke’s Climate Action Plan and its focus on improving the quality of life for residents, please visit letstalk.sooke.ca/sooke2030.

Related:

• Road Safety Crosswalk Improvements Coming to Five Locations in Sooke

The District is sharing this announcement from the Province of British Columbia:

B.C. builds cleaner communities with active transportation

People will have more opportunities to enjoy multi-use pathways, protected bike lanes, pedestrian bridges and safety improvements as local, regional and Indigenous governments expand their active transportation infrastructure.

For this intake period, $24 million from the Province will support 80 active transportation infrastructure projects in communities around British Columbia. These grants will help local governments plan and build improved connections to work, school and recreational centres, and create infrastructure in communities to support active modes of transportation.

“People are choosing to walk, run and cycle more each year. Our support means communities can think bigger when tackling transportation challenges and providing more options for people to get around,” said Dan Coulter, B.C. Minister of State for Infrastructure and Transit, at an event for two projects in the Vancouver Island community of Sooke.

In Sooke, new projects to build safe, inclusive active transportation connections will give people of all ages healthier and more convenient ways to explore their community. The completion of the Little River Multi-Use Trail will establish a vital link between the Sun River Neighbourhood and Ravens Ridge Park, connecting with Sooke’s town core.

Along Charters Road, safety improvements are being built for cyclists and pedestrians. This project will include extended sidewalks, bike lanes, pedestrian crossing infrastructure and a boulevard enhancement.

“I am thrilled and grateful to see the Active Transportation Infrastructure Grants program bolstering our community's efforts toward a more sustainable and accessible future,” said Maja Tait, mayor of Sooke. “With projects like the Little River Multi-Use Trail and enhancements along Charters Road, we’re improving safety and also fostering a healthier, more connected and resilient community.”

The Active Transportation Infrastructure Grants program funds Indigenous, local and regional governments with cost-sharing investments of as much as $500,000 for infrastructure projects, and as much as $50,000 to develop active transportation network plans.

“People in Sooke and across our province are witnessing real, tangible enhancements in their neighbourhoods,” said Ravi Parmar, MLA for Langford-Juan de Fuca. “Promoting active transportation isn't just about roads and paths, it's about fostering safer, healthier and more convenient lifestyles for all. By investing in bike lanes, sidewalks, safe routes to schools and trail networks now, we're laying the foundation for a safer, more interconnected future that benefits everyone.”

The Active Transportation Infrastructure Grants program supports the Province’s CleanBC commitment to increase shares of trips by walking, cycling and transit.

Learn More:

B.C. Active Transportation Infrastructure Grants Program:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/transportation/funding-engagement-permits/funding-grants/active-transportation-infrastructure-grants

Full announcement, including backgrounder:

B.C. builds cleaner communities with active transportation | BC Gov News