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District of Sooke Invites Community Input on Crosswalk Improvements
Wednesday, April 17, 2024 – The District of Sooke is seeking community input on proposed additions and improvements to crosswalks with pedestrian flashing lights on local roads within our community. This initiative, funded through the District’s Climate Action Program, aims to enhance pedestrian safety and accessibility, as well as reduce carbon emissions by promoting active transportation options.
Community members are encouraged to participate in the consultation process by providing feedback on potential crosswalk locations and pedestrian safety concerns. Input can be submitted ONLINE or by phone at 250.642.1634 until May 15, 2024.
The project is a part of the District’s ongoing efforts to prioritize pedestrian safety and foster community resilience. Please note that the scope of this project is limited to the District’s local roads (it excludes Highway 14).
For more information and to stay up to date on the implementation of Sooke’s Climate Action Plan and its focus on improving the quality of life for residents, please visit letstalk.sooke.ca/sooke2030.
Related:
Community Contact:
District of Sooke Reception
Tel: 250.642.1634
Email: info@sooke.ca
Media contact:
Christina Moog, Communications Coordinator
Tel: 250.642.1634
Email: cmoog@sooke.ca
Photo: Crosswalk enhancement on Church Road at the Stickleback Urban Trail – pedestrian flashing lights were added in early 2024.
Join the Nature-Based Scavenger Search at Sooke’s Earth Day Celebration
Monday, April 15, 2024 – A nature-based scavenger search event is a part of the Earth Day Celebration on Saturday, April 27th, 2024! Held adjacent to Fire Station One, alongside the vibrant Sooke Country Market, and hosted by the Fireweed Learning Commons, the event invites families to embark on an adventure inspired by the rejuvenating spirit of spring.
Attendees are encouraged to embrace their curiosity and immerse themselves in the wonders of the natural world. Two sessions will be delivered: one at 11 AM and another at 1 PM. Participants of all ages will have the opportunity to explore their surroundings and gain insight into the seasonal changes occurring in their environment.
The scavenger search promises an engaging and educational experience, allowing participants to discover the beauty and biodiversity of the spring season. Young explorers will be particularly delighted, as each participant, especially children, will receive a small gift as a token of appreciation.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to celebrate Earth Day in a meaningful and enjoyable way. Whether you’re a seasoned nature enthusiast or just beginning to explore the wonders of the outdoors, the nature-based scavenger search promises an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, April 27th, 2024
- Time: 11:00 am and 1:00 pm
- Location: Beside Fire Station One, alongside the Sooke Country Market
- Admission: Free
- Link to registration: REGISTER ONLINE
District website: Join the Nature-Based Scavenger Search at Our Earth Day Celebration (sooke.ca)
Please click on the link for more information on the upcoming Craft-Garage Fair at EMCS.
EMCS SPRING CRAFT-GARAGE SALE 2024
Church-Throup Road Roundabout Approaching Substantial Completion:
UPDATE – Monday, April 15, 2024, 12:34 pm: The paving is scheduled for Wednesday, April 17 and Thursday, April 18. Closures are anticipated from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Top Lift Paving Scheduled for April 16 and 17
Friday, April 12, 2024 – Progress continues with the Church-Throup Roundabout Project with less than four days of road closures expected for the duration of the project, including two next week.
Early rainfall this morning delayed the pouring of the top lift today; however, with sunny days ahead, this milestone is set to be realized on Wednesday, April 16 and Thursday, April 17.
In response to public feedback, construction crews will adjust their schedule to mobilize later in the morning. This action aims to mitigate disruptions during school drop-off hours, thereby (in at least a small capacity) lessening some of the inconvenience to residents and commuters. When the road is closed, hours of work are expected to be approximately 9 am to 5 pm.
“We are in the home stretch!” says Project Manager, Sue Basset with Hazelwood Construction. “We currently expect two more days of closures following this milestone for the remainder of the project.”
The community’s patience and understanding during these essential infrastructure improvements are appreciated.
Follow the implementation of the Transportation Master Plan at letstalk.sooke.ca/tmp.
Learn more about traffic advisories:
Link: Church-Throup Road Roundabout – Top Lift Paving Scheduled for April 16 and 17 (sooke.ca)
Please click on the link below for more information on the upcoming Book Fair.
Journey Middle School Book Fair
Please click on the below link for more information on the upcoming NA’TSA’MAHT T’SOU-KE NATION FAMILY DINNER.
We’re Celebrating Yet Another Transportation Project Milestone! Asphalt Paving Scheduled for the Church/Throup Roundabout Next Week
Thursday, April 4, 2024 – The Church/Throup Roundabout Project is set to reach another significant milestone next week with the completion of asphalt paving (weather permitting). The project, aimed at improving traffic flow and safety for vehicles and pedestrians alike at the intersection of Church and Throup, marks an exciting step forward in enhancing transportation infrastructure within our community.
As part of this process, the Church/Throup intersection will be temporarily closed, April 8th to 10th and on April 12th to facilitate the necessary construction activities. These closures are essential to ensure the safety of workers and the efficient progress of the project. The anticipated schedule is:
- April 8 & 9th – Grading: Roundabout North up Church Road (north leg), closure 9am to 5pm
- April 10th – Base lift paving: Roundabout North up Church Road (north leg), closure 8am to 5pm
- April 12th – Top lift paving: Church Road (Wadams to Church Street), Throup Road, closure 8am to 5pm
While closures are not ideal, as the project approaches substantial completion, the end of these works is approaching. Please follow the posted signage regarding detours and traffic personnel, while allowing some additional time for your travels.
Through this phase of work, temporary crosswalk markings will be in place with $57,300 in funding provided through the ICBC Road Safety program. The ultimate crossings will include thermal paint which offers increased longevity and flashing lights to enhance pedestrian visibility for both those travelling by foot or vehicle alike. Permanent installations will be done this spring after the top lift of asphalt across the entire construction area is applied.
As we celebrate this milestone, we would like to once again express our gratitude to the residents for their patience and cooperation throughout the construction process.
More About the Two-Lift Paving Application
This project is the using a two-lift application for asphalt paving. This approach involves applying two layers of asphalt – known as lifts – to create a smoother and more durable road surface. By completing the lifts separately, the project team is ensuring the highest quality outcome for the roadworks.
Learn more:
Closure of Charters Road for Concrete Curb Installation March 18-March 25, 2024
Thursday, March 14, 2024 – The District is advising the public of a temporary closure of Charters Road, scheduled for next week to facilitate the installation of concrete curbs between Golledge and the “Throup Creek dip”. This closure, essential for infrastructure enhancement, aims to ensure safer and more durable roadways for our community
This closure, occurring March 18th to 25th, has been strategically coordinated to occur during spring break for School District 62 and minimize disruption to residents. While Charters Road will be closed to through traffic from Monday afternoon until the end of the day Friday, access for local traffic will be maintained.
During this time, vehicle access into driveways will be temporarily blocked for three days following the pouring of curbs, allowing the concrete to set and gain sufficient strength. Residents directly affected by this closure will receive additional notices outlining specific details and accommodations for driveway access.
“I greatly appreciate the efforts of our contractor, Hazelwood Construction, in adapting to minimize disruption to residents whenever possible,” says Interim CAO Raechel Gray. “The District is making significant investments to respond to what we continually hear is the top concern affecting residents, our transportation network.”
We encourage residents to plan their routes accordingly, allow additional time for travel and utilize alternative routes during this period.”
“Construction is expected throughout the community as we implement the Transportation Master Plan, which while inconvenient, is hopefully something we can also celebrate,” adds Gray.
Link: Closure of Charters Road for Concrete Curb Installation March 18-March 25, 2024 (sooke.ca)
Community Easter Egg Hunt Relocates to John Phillips Memorial Park to Accommodate Growing Participation
Friday, March 15, 2024 – In response to the expanding participation and to ensure a delightful experience for all attendees, the annual Community Easter Egg Hunt, hosted by Pemberton Holmes, is moving to a new location at John Phillips Memorial Park. The event will take place on Saturday, March 30, 2024, starting at 10:00 a.m.
Join “Pemberton Pete” and the Pemberton Holmes team for a morning of free Easter fun at John Phillips Memorial Park. This beloved tradition promises an egg-citing day for families in Sooke!
The event will feature separate egg hunts tailored for toddlers and elementary-age children. Participants will have the opportunity to gather as many eggs as possible and exchange them with Pemberton Pete’s helpers for exciting prizes. Additionally, families can enjoy face painting, colouring activities, balloons, and popcorn.
Egg hunt times for various age groups are as follows:
- Toddlers (up to 3 years): 10:00 am and 11:00 am.
- Children (4 to 8 years): 10:20 am and 11:30 am.
- Children (9 to 12 years): 10:40 am and 11:40 am.
In consideration of all attendees, Pemberton Holmes Sooke kindly requests that pets, including dogs, be left at home.
Limited parking is available at Sooke Municipal Hall. With a strong attendance expected, alternative modes of transportation are strongly encouraged.
Community contact:
Pemberton Holmes
Tel: 250.642.3240
Email: SookeReception@phre.ca
PAC DFS Fundraiser
Journey’s ID code is 7617.
Proceeds will go to a year end event for students and towards playground fundraising efforts.
Good afternoon – I’m excited to extend an invitation to you to participate in the Greater Victoria Flower Count 2024! This annual event, sponsored and organized by local businesses, Destination Greater Victoria, and The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, aims to spread spring cheer and showcase the beauty of our communities.
The Flower Count is a wonderful opportunity for residents of Greater Victoria, including Sooke, to come together, explore their surroundings, and celebrate the arrival of spring. From 7 a.m. on March 6 to 4 p.m. on March 13, we invite you to join us in counting blossoming blooms and contributing to this delightful tradition. Let’s make Sooke bloom with pride!
In 2023, the community of Sidney took the title of the “Bloomingest Community” with an impressive count of 7,580,503,851 flowers. However, with your participation, we believe Sooke can rise to the challenge and claim the top spot in 2024!
Destination Victoria has exciting prize opportunities for participants, including our Photo contest, Social Media contest, and School contest. Their generous prize sponsors include The Butchart Gardens and La Limo, whose valued contributions are making this year’s event even more special.
So, let’s embrace the spirit of community pride and encourage everyone to get involved. Whether counting flowers in your backyard or exploring the beauty of Sooke, every flower counts towards our collective total.
We encourage you to share this invitation, and together, let’s make Sooke shine in the Greater Victoria Flower Count 2024! Don’t forget to document your flower-counting adventures and share them on social media using the hashtags #ExploreVictoria and #ExploreSooke.
Learn more and participate:
I look forward to seeing Sooke and our community spirit bloom!