Vancouver Island residents can look forward to future upgrades coming to several provincial parks as the B.C. government announces a multi-million dollar investment focused on improving access to nature.
The government says it will be investing $5 million towards infrastructure projects at 24 provincial parks, with several of them located on Vancouver Island, including MacMillan, Loveland Bay, Rathtrevor Beach and Maquinna Marine.
“We have heard the call for greater access to the outdoors to promote health and well-being during COVID-19. These meaningful projects create jobs to address those needs as part of our support for B.C. communities,” said George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy. “Investing in provincial parks also protects sensitive ecosystems, supports our climate change goals and makes parks more accessible for everyone to enjoy.”
One example provided by the Province centres around Loveland Bay Provincial Park near Campbell River. Some of the investment money will be allocated to upgrading all 31 campsites with new tables, fire rings and fresh gravel surfacing. The project will also reconstruct the beach area with picnic tables and wheelchair-accessible ramps, expanded parking areas and two new pathways connecting the campsites to the beach. The province also says an additional 22 campsites, including three walk-in sites, are being added as part of the ongoing campsite expansion program.
Other projects include paving the day-use parking lot at Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park and replacing a portion of the boardwalk trail and stairs at Maquinna Marine Provincial Park – a path that protects the sensitive habitat. The project at Maquinna Marine is being done in partnership with the Ahousaht First Nation, “providing work experience, mentorship and jobs for the local community,” notes the Province.
“Our provincial parks on Vancouver Island are among the natural treasures of our province and one of the greatest things about living here,” said Adam Walker, MLA for Parksville-Qualicum. “Rathtrevor Beach is one of the premier vacation destinations on Vancouver Island, with campsites, showers, beach access and many walking trails in the day-use area all wheelchair accessible. This project increases accessibility so everyone can enjoy this beautiful area.”
Some other general upgrades coming to provincial parks on Vancouver Island will include improvements to water systems, parking lots, multi-use trails, campground facilities, backcountry facilities and accessibility.
The province also plans to insert electric vehicle charging stations to some day-use areas.
B.C.’s provincial parks receive more than 23 million visits each year, according to the government, and experts suggest there has been an uptick in visitors over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The government adds that the investment is part of the StrongerBC economic recovery initiative promoting wellness and employment.
Graham Cox
