Highway 1 is not done yet; new upgrades are coming designed to ease commuters' lives.
On Dec. 18, the Ministry of Transportation and Transit announced plans for new upgrades on Greater Victoria’s portion of Highway 1 to improve bus travel between downtown Victoria and the West Shore.
"We know everyone needs a commute they can count on to and from work, home and school – especially between our busy South Island communities," said Transportation Minister Mike Farnworth.
"Dedicated bus lanes make travel easier for everyone on the road and will make transit the obvious choice. This project is another way we're making our highways sustainable for years to come."
The announcement unveiled plans for the completion of a new bus-on-shoulder-lanes project, which will widen nearly four kilometres of highway between McKenzie and Colwood interchanges, allowing for the accommodation of continuous north and southbound bus lanes.
“This is a game-changing infrastructure project for the West Shore – one of the most significant in our history. Fast, reliable bus service is vital for our communities, helping people save time, money, and fuel while making it easier to get where they need to go," said Langford-Highlands MLA Ravi Parmar. "This investment is about building a stronger, more connected future for everyone.”
Along with the highway widening, the project will deliver a new pedestrian and cyclist bridge for the Galloping Goose Trail at Craigflower Creek. It will also include ecological restorations, upgraded bus stops at Helmcken Road, and realignments to Portage Road, ramps and roadside barriers.
The work is intended to support the West Shore RapidBus Line and the Blink RapidBus service launched by BC Transit earlier this year by reducing stoppages and congestion along the highway.
The $54.5 million contract to complete the project was awarded to Jacob Bros. Construction, which will begin work in early 2025. The project is expected to be completed by late fall 2027.
This work will complete one important aspect of the South Island Transportation Strategy by providing a rapid bus system between the downtown and West Shore communities. The strategy also focuses on improved sustainability and resiliency in southern Vancouver Island communities.
