The City of Victoria is getting a big funding boost to enhance a popular street in the downtown core, in a push to attract more tourists, visitors and new businesses.
The Government of Canada has announced a $750,000 investment through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) to install protected bike lanes, pedestrian crossings and traffic signals along Government Street, from Pandora Avenue to Gorge Road.
The federal government says the funding will also upgrade the street’s public seating as well as art and landscaping, ultimately revitalizing the streetscape of one of Victoria’s key transportation routes.
“We so appreciate the federal government’s investment, through PacifiCan (Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada), in the city’s Arts and Innovation District,” said Mayor Lisa Helps.
“This project has transformed Government Street, delivered significant road safety, asset renewal and placemaking improvements, all of which strengthen our economy and increase our resiliency as a capital city.”
The CCRF launched last June to provide $500 million over two years for Canada’s regional development agencies, investing in projects that build and improve community infrastructure.
“In Victoria, like so many places across British Columbia, the community is ready to welcome back residents and visitors to vibrant streets and refreshed outdoor public spaces,” states a Monday, May 30th release.
The federal government says upgrading existing community infrastructure will provide better access to recreational facilities and boost economic vitality, especially after many public areas laid dormant amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
