Victoria, BC—The Capital Regional District (CRD) Board is moving forward with elector approval for a bylaw establishing the Regional Transportation Service (RTS). Creating this service will align transportation with growth planning and advance the CRD's priority of supporting residents’ access to convenient, green and affordable multi-modal transportation systems.
"This new Regional Transportation Service represents a collaborative effort and is an important initial step to reduce carbon emissions, promote active transportation and address congestion," said Colin Plant, CRD Board Chair. "Through changes in service delivery, the proposed RTS will empower the CRD to expand its role in achieving our regional transportation goals by enabling the development of innovative programs and projects that support a robust and integrated Regional Multi-modal Network.”
Staff from each of the local governments, electoral areas, BC Transit, Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, BC Ferries, Victoria Airport Authority, and Island Corridor Foundation continue to participate in ongoing discussions on this work through the Transportation Working Group and one-on-one meetings to gather feedback on transportation governance.
"This is a significant step towards delivering regional transportation services that enhance integrated mobility," said CRD Transportation Committee Chair Dean Murdock. "With this new service, our region can work together to deliver transportation choices that make it easier and more convenient for everyone to get around as they travel all parts of the region."
The first priority under the RTS will be updating the 2014 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) to refine the region's vision and goals for integrated long-term planning. This update will involve collaboration across the region to ensure a comprehensive approach to regional transportation needs. Additionally, the RTS will introduce new funding opportunities to support local government in delivering regionally significant priorities.
Elector approval must be obtained in order to advance the Regional Transportation Service. The regional alternative approval process is expected to begin in Q1 2025.
For more information about the bylaw and the Regional Transportation Service, please visit https://www.crd.bc.ca/project/regional-transportation.
The CRD delivers regional, sub-regional and local services to 13 municipalities and three electoral areas on southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. Governed by a 24-member Board of Directors, the CRD works collaboratively with First Nations and government partners to enable sustainable growth, foster community well-being, and develop cost-effective infrastructure while continuing to provide core services to residents throughout the region. Visit us online at www.crd.bc.ca.
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For media inquiries, please contact:
Andy Orr, Senior Manager
CRD Corporate Communications
Tel: 250.360.3229
Cell: 250.216.5492