Metchosin Draft Active Transportation Network Plan - Phase 2 Engagement & Survey
The District of Metchosin is now conducting a second round of engagement on the draft Active Transportation Network Plan (ATNP). The ATNP provides a strategy to improve active transportation conditions in Metchosin that align with the policy goals and objectives that are most important to the community.
Currently, 93% of all trips made by Metchosin residents are by vehicle and only 2% of trips are made by active transportation modes, including walking and cycling. Metchosin has lower rates of walking and cycling compared to its neighboring Westshore communities. Moreover, while the Galloping Goose Regional Trail acts as the primary cycling corridor in Metchosin, it does not connect to many important destinations and neighborhoods throughout the District.
The draft ATNP identifies network improvements to support people cycling, walking, and wheeling (including people with disabilities) to improve safety, remove or minimize barriers, and facilitate connectivity across the community and to neighboring municipalities.
Project Process:
The District of Metchosin received funding from the B.C. Active Transportation Network Planning Grant, to support development of an Active Transportation Network Plan (ATNP) for the community. This is the plan being developed now.
Once a top priority project is selected during Phase 2 engagement (see below), the District will apply for a shovel-ready project to the B.C. Active Transportation Infrastructure Grants Program. This grant supports the Province’s CleanBC commitment to increasing shares of trips by walking, cycling and transit.
Engagement:
The first round of engagement, which took place throughout Fall 2024, identified some key takeaways that helped inform the draft ATNP. Most notable were challenges and barriers to cycling and walking on Metchosin streets due to a lack dedicated and protected cycling and roadside pedestrian facilities.
There is also a desire to see more neighbourhood connections to the Galloping Goose Regional Trail and improved opportunities for access to neighbouring communities.
Additionally, there is significant concern for high traffic speeds, particularly on roads without separated spaces to walk or cycle and where streets are narrow and with blind corners.
Through the first round of engagement, some priority projects appeared to be emerging as preferred for future active transportation improvements, some of which include the expansion of roadside trails on Happy Valley Road around the Village Centre, and a roadside trail on Metchosin Road that will enable connections to the Village Centre, Galloping Goose, Witty Lagoon and Colwood.
The District is now conducting a phase 2 engagement to ensure the draft ATNP reflects the needs and aspirations of the community.
Public input received will help refine the draft plan and prioritize projects for future investment, including the selection of one top priority project to apply for funding through the B.C. Active Transportation Infrastructure Grant program.
Metchosin residents are invited to participate in the following ways:
Please take a moment to complete the Phase 2 survey on the draft ATNP using the link provided or by using the QR Code below. The survey will be available until March 11, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. Hard copies of the survey are available at the Municipal Hall, 4450 Happy Valley Road.
A Community Open House with ATNP Consultants from Urban Systems will also be held on the draft ATNP Wednesday, March 5th, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the District of Metchosin Council Chambers, 4450 Happy Valley Road.
For further information, please contact:
Bob Payette, Chief Administrative Officer
District of Metchosin
4450 Happy Valley Road
Victoria, BC V9C 3Z3
Phone: 250-474-3167
Email: info@metchosin.ca