Exciting Enhancements Underway at Ravens Ridge Park

Thursday, September 26, 2024 – Further recreation amenities are coming to Ravens Ridge Park, marking continued progress toward creating an inviting, multi-purpose space for the community!

Phase 2 of the Ravens Ridge Park enhancements is underway with anticipated completion in Spring 2025. This phase will include the commissioning of a new Multisport Games Area (MUGA) and significant landscape upgrades.

The multisport games area will feature low-profile fences, built-in shock and sound absorption, and a natural aesthetic. The new 18m x 32m fenced court will include basketball nets above soccer goals, with the flexibility to accommodate other games and activities. This court will provide a versatile space for sports and recreational activities, meeting the growing demands of the community.

In addition to the games area, the landscape upgrades will feature a raised sitting area with bleachers and picnic tables beside the sports box, accessibility improvements, and FireSmart landscaping that includes the planting of 50 new trees. These updates are designed to enhance the park’s functionality and aesthetics while prioritizing the safety and enjoyment of visitors.

The funding for this project is made possible through a combination of the Canada Infrastructure Program – Community, Culture, and Recreation Program grant and Playground Field Reserve Funds, established from a Sunriver Estates contribution.

“As we move forward with Ravens Ridge Park enhancements, we are focused on creating spaces that inspire active, healthy lifestyles while fostering community connections,” said Mayor Maja Tait. “These improvements are part of a broader effort to respond to the growing needs of Sooke’s residents and enhance the overall quality of life in our community.”

For more details on Ravens Ridge Park, visit the Ravens Ridge Park information page on our website:

• https://sooke.ca/district-services/departments/parks-and-greenspaces/multi-use-sports-box/.

Link: Exciting Enhancements Underway at Ravens Ridge Park (sooke.ca)

Attachments:

• District of Sooke site photos, subject by file name

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Christina Moog, M.A. (MAPC)   l  Communications Coordinator

District of Sooke  l   250-642-1634 ext. 678

2205 Otter Point Road

The District of Sooke is within the Coast Salish territory. I am grateful for the T’Sou-ke Nation’s generosity and hospitality while we live, learn and work here.

STAY INFORMED: subscribe to District electronic mailing lists and receive meeting notifications and agendas

QUICK LINKS:

• Navigating Sooke: Transforming Traffic Challenges into Solutions
• Traffic Advisories and related resources
• Subscribe to Council meeting notifications and agendas
• Sign up to our monthly e-newsletter

For the latest on District of Sooke activities, visit sooke.ca or follow us on X!

September 17, 2024 Statement Regarding Charters Road Construction Project Status

Tuesday, September 17, 2024 – The District of Sooke is pleased to provide an update on the Charters Road construction as the project is set to reach a significant milestone, paving, this week! However, while this is a significant step forward provided favourable weather remains, coordination with subcontractors and requirements to ensure a safe site for crews and the public means a continued closure will be in effect. The District, along with the project contractor, Hazelwood Construction, shares the community’s desire to see this project completed in a timely manner.

Over the summer, the District explored multiple options to expedite the work, including the potential for a modified reopening. While this option could not be guaranteed, our commitment to keeping the project on or ahead of the end of October schedule remains.

The safety of both the public and construction crews is our top priority, and we will not compromise the quality or integrity of the work. District staff continue to collaborate closely with Hazelwood Construction to ensure that all subcontractor work progresses efficiently. We are also prepared to introduce additional measures, such as enhanced traffic control, to support a partial reopening of the road—provided it does not delay the overall project.

As we have stated throughout the project, should an opportunity arise to reopen Charters Road earlier than originally scheduled, we will act on it. This commitment remains unchanged.

While paving is in progress, subcontractors will not have access to the site, so subsequent work will follow once paving is finished.

Jeff Stevens, Project Manager with Hazelwood Construction has expressed satisfaction with the progress to date, stating, “We’re pleased that a project of this complexity remains on schedule. We will continue to coordinate with the District to provide updated communications after paving is complete and more definitive options for reopening are available.”

Additionally, Mayor Maja Tait and members of Council, along with Chief Administrative Officer Raechel Gray, are attending the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) Convention in Vancouver to advocate on several key transportation issues for our community, including:

1. Expedited and Increased Transit Services to Sooke: Advocacy for swift implementation of the Sooke Local Area Transit Plan, focusing on increased service hours.
2. Vision for Highway 14 and Current Transportation Issues: Advocacy for the next phase of Highway 14 upgrades, and efforts to reduce congestion and improve the quality of life for residents through Highway 14 improvements.
3. Infrastructure Funding for the Transportation Master Plan (TMP): Seeking funding to build out critical internal road networks, support transit, and promote active transportation, reducing car dependency.
4. Co-working Hub Initiative: Advocacy for the creation of a co-working hub in Sooke to support economic development and remote workers.

For further updates, please follow the District of Sooke’s official communication channels, including our website and electronic newsletter. You can also reach us by phone at 250.642.1634 or email at info@sooke.ca.

Link: Statement Regarding Charters Road Construction Project Status (sooke.ca)

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Christina Moog, M.A. (MAPC)   l  Communications Coordinator

District of Sooke  l   250-642-1634 ext. 678

2205 Otter Point Road

The District of Sooke is within the Coast Salish territory. I am grateful for the T’Sou-ke Nation’s generosity and hospitality while we live, learn and work here.

STAY INFORMED: subscribe to District electronic mailing lists and receive meeting notifications and agendas

QUICK LINKS:

• Navigating Sooke: Transforming Traffic Challenges into Solutions
• Traffic Advisories and related resources
• Subscribe to Council meeting notifications and agendas
• Sign up to our monthly e-newsletter

For the latest on District of Sooke activities, visit sooke.ca or follow us on X!

Good Afternoon,

10 Extra yearbooks will be on sale tomorrow, and they will be sold on a first come/first served basis!

Sales will start at 8:15am in the office, $45, (cash or cheque/SD62).

Thank You

2024-25 School Supply Lists

Grade 8 – Journey Middle School (Sooke) – 2024 School Start Finals

Grade 7 – Journey Middle School (Sooke) – 2024 School Start Finals

Grade 6 – Journey Middle School (Sooke) – 2024 School Start Finals

Reminder

PAC Hot Lunch happening Friday, June 7th!

2024-25

School Calendar: Calendar 2024-25 – FINAL

School Colour Calendar: Colour Calendar 2024-25

School Operating Details: Journey Middle School Operation Details – 2024-25 – Letter to Parents

Hello Grade 8 Families,

We polled our Grade 8 students to see if they wanted a year-end school dance and the vote was unanimous: Yes!

The date that has been selected is Thursday, June 6th from 6-8pm.

The dance is being organized by a group of Grade 8 parents led by Kristy Green.  Please find a ‘Save the Date’ poster attached for your reference.

Four things that you and your student should know about the dance are as follows (note: students were informed of these parameters prior to voting on the dance):

• Students will sign in as they arrive.
• Only Grade 8 students currently enrolled at Journey may attend.
• The event is an indoor event and there will be no in-out privileges; once you sign in you stay at the event until you sign out.
• Parents must sign their children out at the end of the event or provide confirmation that their child can walk home alone (text on student’s phone is fine).

We look forward to hopefully seeing your child at this event.  This is one of the Grade 8 leaving events that we have planned.  More information will be coming out this week about the Grade 8 Leaving Ceremony which is being held on Wednesday, June 26th from 1:00-2:00pm.

Please select link for the Dance Poster Grade 8 Dance

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me,

This Thursday, May 30^th , there will be an Up-Cycle Crafts Market happening at lunch recess (11:35am – 12:10pm) in the gymnasium. Students, staff, and parents are welcome to come and check out all the incredible things that will be for sale. Bring your money to buy some amazing handmade crafts!

Join Us for Wildfire Preparedness Day on Sunday, June 2!

Thursday, May 23, 2024 – As wildfire season begins in B.C., it’s more important than ever to ensure we are prepared. We are pleased to announce that Broombusters in Sooke is leading a Wildfire Preparedness Day event, in collaboration with the District of Sooke, which will take place on Sunday, June 2, from 11 AM to 1 PM. The event will be held at the Stickleback Urban Trail Head near Journey Middle School on Ponds Park Corridor (see photos).

Wildfire Preparedness Day is an opportunity for community members to come together to help FireSmart the area and to learn valuable strategies to protect their homes and properties from wildfires. The event will include:

• Community Clean-Up: Join us in clearing flammable vegetation and debris along the trail to create a safer environment.
• Education: Experts will provide information on how to fire-smart your home and property, including tips on creating defensible space and using fire-resistant building materials.
• Emergency Preparedness: Learn how to develop an emergency plan for your family, including evacuation routes and emergency supply kits.

“We want to empower our community with the knowledge and tools they need to protect themselves from wildfires,” said Sooke Fire Chief Ted Ruiter. “This event is a great way to come together, make a difference, and ensure we are all better prepared for an emergency, such as the threat of wildfire.”

Participants are encouraged to wear appropriate clothing and bring gloves and any personal tools they have for vegetation clearing. Water and light refreshments will be provided.

Don’t miss this chance to make a positive impact in your community and enhance your own wildfire preparedness. We look forward to seeing you there!

As always, carpooling and alternative modes of transportation to District events is encouraged. Parking is available nearby at Journey Middle School.

Learn more:

• Sooke FireSmart Program | Let’s Talk Sooke
• Sooke 2030 Climate Action Plan: Implementation | Let’s Talk Sooke

For more information, please contact:
Madison Crawford, Fire Protection
District of Sooke
Tel: 250.642.5422
mcrawford@sooke.ca

Media contact:
Christina Moog, Communications
District of Sooke
Tel: 250.642.1634, ext. 678
cmoog@sooke.ca

Closure of Charters Road in Sooke for Essential Infrastructure Upgrades: May 27, 2024 until October 2024

Thursday, May 23, 2024 –  The District of Sooke is announcing the temporary closure of Charters Road from Golledge Avenue to Throup Roads to facilitate crucial infrastructure upgrades from Monday, May 27, 2024 until (approximately) October 2024. The closure is necessary for the placement of a culvert and structural repairs, along with the addition of sidewalks and bike lanes, aimed at enhancing safety for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. The timing of the culvert placement and subsequent works around Throup Creek accommodate the fisheries window, ensuring minimal disruption to the local ecosystem.

During this phase of the project, residents will still have access to Charters Road from Golledge Avenue and Throup Roads; however, through traffic on Charters Road will be redirected.

In collaboration with School District 62, parking accommodations have been secured for ball season attendees. The parking lot at Journey Middle School will be available for public use on weekday evenings and weekends.

Mayor Maja Tait remarked, “These repairs are long overdue. While disruption during construction is inevitable, the upcoming improvements will significantly enhance safety for our community.”

Efforts will be made to expedite the construction process while adhering to budgetary constraints if at all possible. Although the current target for road reopening is the end of October, potential delays due to unforeseen circumstances are acknowledged, as are less likely opportunities to more rapidly progress works. The District of Sooke will provide updates to the community regarding any changes to the timeline.

For further information and updates on transportation projects in Sooke and to follow the implementation of the Transportation Master Plan, please visit:

• letstalk.sooke.ca/tmp

More About the Fisheries Window

During construction projects, particularly those involving waterways or areas near aquatic ecosystems, fisheries windows are designated periods during which certain activities are restricted or regulated to minimize impact on fish populations and their habitats.

Fisheries windows are typically timed to align with critical periods in the lifecycle of fish species, such as spawning or migration seasons. These periods are carefully determined based on scientific research and provincial regulations to ensure the protection of fish populations and their habitats.

Link: Closure of Charters Road in Sooke for Essential Infrastructure Upgrades: May 27, 2024 until October 2024

Community Contact:
District of Sooke Reception
Tel: 250.642.1634
Email: info@sooke.ca

Media Contact:
Christina Moog, Communications Coordinator
Tel: 250.642.1634, ext. 678
Email: cmoog@sooke.ca