>>Carina Foran

In an effort to increase support for neighbourhoods, the City of Victoria’s 2016 budget included capital projects and plans for each neighbourhood. Our Neighbourhood Coordinator for Fernwood, Michael Hill, reviewed the proposed budget and compiled a list of capital investments proposed for 2016. These include:

  • A new sidewalk on Pembroke Street from Belmont to Fernwood;
  • Two new bus shelters on Bay Street (near Fernwood Road and Cedar Hill Road);
  • Brick replacement work at Gladstone Mall;
  • Paving on Cook Street from Pandora Avenue to Caledonia;
  • Installation of audio countdown crosswalk signals at Bay/Fernwood; and
  • Resurfacing of playing surface at William Stevenson Memorial Park.

In addition to neighbourhood specific projects, the budget also included city-wide projects like the Biketoria Cycling Network, three new Neighbourhood Community Art Projects, a conversion to LED street lights, and a new “Wayfinding” program for signing destinations, landmarks and routes. There is also a new in-house parking ambassador program and review function, and a review of zoning related to off street parking standards. We will also see new skateboarding regulations and proposed regulations for Medicinal Marijuana retailers. Two master plans are forthcoming, one for Parks and one for Arts and Culture, as well as the development of a Youth Engagement Strategy. The City has also proposed new programs and policies to grow more food in the city.

There are also opportunities for community members to initiate their own projects through the My Great Neighbourhood Grants program with an allocated $120,000 going towards funding community-initiated projects. For folks who want to start a project in their community (or need help navigating city hall, applying for grants, or needing technical advice) get in touch with the City’s Neighbourhood Teams for more information. The Fernwood neighbourhood contacts are: