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Active transportation projects in Sidney fuelled with $500,000 in federal funding

Canada Community Building Fund improves infrastructure without tax impact, mayor says
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Sidney’s bike lane improvement project on the west side of the Pat Bay Highway received $229,000 from the Canada Community-Building Fund in 2021 and was one of three infrastructure upgrades done with program funding. (Photo courtesy Town of Sidney)

Sidney invested almost $500,000 across three infrastructure projects benefiting active transportation, with funding provided by the Canada Community-Building Fund.

Council is thankful to the federal government for the ongoing funding and the Union of BC Municipalities for overseeing the program, Mayor Cliff McNeil-Smith said in a release.

“This reliable funding source allows us to maintain and improve Sidney’s infrastructure without additional impact on taxpayers,” he said. “This year’s funding has made it possible to improve a range of active transportation opportunities in Sidney, which in turn support the health and well-being of community members.”

Projects funded in 2021 included the Bike Path Improvement on the west side of Highway 17 ($229,000), the extension of the Eighth Street sidewalk ($146,000) and improvements to the sidewalk running through Tulista Park ($100,000).

The municipality has received over $7.7 million in funding from the program, now in its 18th year.

RELATED: Sidney, Central Saanich benefit from B.C. funding for active transportation plans

RELATED: Sidney to start Tulista Park improvements this month

Major categories for eligible projects include local roads and active transportation; sport and recreation infrastructure; wastewater and storm water, and drinking water.

Burnaby North-Seymour MP Terry Beech speaking on behalf of Dominic LeBlanc, minister of intergovernmental affairs, infrastructure and communities said in a release that investments in active transportation is an essential part of building healthier, greener and more connected communities.

Josie Osborne, provincial minister of municipal affairs, said Sidney’s improved active transportation adds convenience while reducing the number of vehicles on the road.

“Together with the federal government, the (province) is proud to support projects that promote physical activity and reduce emissions, creating healthier and more connected communities for everyone.”


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Wolf Depner

About the Author: Wolf Depner

I joined the national team with Black Press Media in 2023 from the Peninsula News Review, where I had reported on Vancouver Island's Saanich Peninsula since 2019.
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