@bctransit.com
NANAIMO – A joint investment of more than $15 million to support public transit in Nanaimo has been announced.
The Nanaimo Downtown Exchange project will include the construction of an expanded off-street transit exchange on Terminal Avenue at Commercial Street in downtown Nanaimo, which is required for future transit expansion in the Regional District of Nanaimo.
The project also includes an operator rest facility and layover parking nearby on Cavan Street, this facility will include washroom and break room facilities, bus layover parking and upgrades to allow safe access, and use of the site and is designed to provide improved operator working conditions.
“The transit exchange will bring more people downtown to shop, work and visit our natural, historic and artistic treasures. Locating the exchange on Terminal Avenue is critical to building an effective transit system and revitalizing the heart of our city,” said Leonard Krog, Mayor of Nanaimo.
This exchange will support a series of transit service changes that will improve bus circulation in the downtown area, and increases to transit service level frequency to develop the Transit Future Network.
The transit exchange will also be designed to achieve the Security Achieved through Functional Environmental (SAFE) Design Standard certification, which is the industry standard to physical security that reduces the risk and fear of crime by design, policy, and shaping public spaces. This certification will help the local government create safe, secure and enjoyable places to live, learn, work and play.
“The Regional District of Nanaimo is a proud partner of the new downtown transit exchange project and appreciates the funding and commitment from the Government of Canada to improve transit accessibility and efficiency in our region. The new exchange will provide convenient connections between transit routes, enhancing the transit user experience,” said Vanessa Craig, Chair, Regional District of Nanaimo.
By investing in infrastructure, the Government of Canada is growing our country’s economy, building resilient communities, and improving the lives of Canadians.
The Government of Canada is investing $6,018,033 in this project, while the Government of British Columbia is investing $6,018,033 and the Regional District of Nanaimo is contributing $3,009,016 and the City of Nanaimo is contributing the land.
Business Examiner Staff