Your trusted source for local North Vancouver, BC news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
British Columbia has received nearly 780 job applications from U.S. health professionals in two months due to a recruitment campaign. The College of Physicians and Surgeons of B.C. has streamlined registration for U.S.-trained doctors, allowing faster licensing without additional assessments.
The north side on-ramp to westbound Highway 1 from East 1st Avenue will close for two weeks starting July 17, 2025, to facilitate sewer upgrades. Drivers should detour via East Hastings Street or McGill Street and allow extra travel time. Traffic updates will be available on DriveBC.
The Province of British Columbia allocates over $6 million for 11 community projects aimed at enhancing protection against climate-driven hazards. This funding, part of the Disaster Resilience and Innovation Funding program, supports First Nations and local governments in mitigating risks from natural disasters. Key projects include a $10 million flood mitigation initiative in the Village of Hazelton.
One active measles case and 10 hospitalizations occur in B.C. as of July 8, 2025, amid 102 reported cases this year. Public health officials urge residents to verify their immunization status and receive the measles vaccine to prevent severe complications associated with the virus.
The Province of British Columbia and the Nicola 5 First Nations are developing a water sustainability plan for the Nicola watershed to address drought and declining salmon populations. This collaborative effort aims to ensure long-term water security by involving local communities and stakeholders in the planning process.
British Columbia supports community initiatives to prepare for climate-related emergencies as warming temperatures raise the risk of wildfires and droughts. Residents are urged to stay vigilant and plan ahead, particularly with the Canada Day weekend approaching. The Province is funding local projects to enhance emergency response capabilities.
Terry Yung, Minister of State for Community Safety, acknowledged the impact of the April 2025 violence at the Lapu-Lapu Day Festival and announced the release of safety recommendations for community events in B.C. The report, prepared by former Chief Justice Christopher Hinkson, provides practical tools for event organizers to enhance safety and security.
Kelowna opened 44 new shelter and transitional housing spaces for women and children escaping violence. Funded by over $5 million from BC Housing, the new Alexandra Gardner Women and Children Safe Centre offers 20 shelter spaces and 24 transitional homes. This initiative aims to provide safety and support for vulnerable families in the community.
The Province of British Columbia is advancing consultations to modernize the Heritage Conservation Act, which hasn't been updated since 1996. New engagement phases aim to streamline permitting processes and enhance First Nations' involvement in heritage management. Public feedback will be solicited from July to October 2025, with updated legislation expected in spring 2026.
BC Hydro has updated its Distribution Extension Policy to facilitate faster and cheaper electricity connections for new homes and businesses across British Columbia, effective July 5, 2025. The cost for connecting a new single-family home has plummeted by over 90%, making it as low as $64. This policy change aims to alleviate the financial burden on developers and support B.C.'s growing housing demand.