McTavish Interchange

2009-2011; Project Value: $24 Million

Project Summary:

The BC Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (BCMoT) has constructed a grade-separated interchange to improve safety, enhance transit and improve access to the Victoria International Airport at Highway 17 (Patricia Bay Highway) and McTavish Road. The new interchange includes major improvements to the transit facilities including an expanded park and ride, transit exchange and other enhancements (including accommodation of Rapid Bus service). The interchange also accommodates cyclists and pedestrians, and improves access to BC Ferries and the rest of the local road network. Reduced idling from stop-and-go traffic, along with greater transit usage, will result in more efficient energy use to yield better air quality with reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

Activities: Working with project partners Victoria Airport Authority and BCMoT, Jack Stuempel and Associates identified and provided advice on key issues during the scope and concept development stage to improve the level of support for the project as it proceeded to detailed design. Ongoing support in construction traffic communications, issues management and community relations was provided throughout the implementation period. Specific services included:

• • Participating with multiple public agencies and private firms in the planning and preparation of materials for the formal project announcement

  • Preparation and execution of a public consultation and stakeholder relations strategy

  • Open house planning and implementation

  • Participation in Municipal Council presentations and direct dialogue with other municipal representatives

  • Facilitation of community liaison committee appointed by the District of North Saanich

  • Direct dialogue with the neighbouring community

  • Website content development

  • Media relations support

  • Issues management

Results: BCMoT’s responsiveness to identified issues, reflected in a significantly-modified design concept, resulted in a considerable increase in stakeholder support for the project and validated the consultation process. Ongoing dialogue and sensitivity to community issues during and after construction yielded similarly positive outcomes.