Your trusted source for local North Vancouver, BC news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The Juan de Fuca Marine Trail will remain closed throughout the summer due to significant damage from storms, affecting key sections of the trail and backcountry campgrounds. However, day-use areas in Juan de Fuca Park, including Mystic Beach and East Sombrio Beach, remain accessible for outdoor enthusiasts. Updates on the trail's repairs and phased reopening will be provided on the official BC Parks website.
British Columbia officials are urging residents to prepare for seasonal hazards linked to climate change, including flooding, wildfires, and drought. With warming temperatures leading to snowmelt and the potential for prolonged dry conditions, the province emphasizes the importance of emergency preparedness. Officials recommend developing personal emergency plans and being proactive in water conservation and wildfire prevention efforts.
Community-based organizations in British Columbia have received $300,000 in grants to support initiatives aimed at combating racism and promoting multiculturalism. The funding will assist various projects, including cultural events and advocacy resources, set to take place by March 2026. This initiative forms part of the provincial government's broader commitment to fostering a more equitable and welcoming society.
Drivers are warned about an overnight closure of the northbound lanes on the Highway 1 Colquitz River Bridge on April 16, 2025, due to ongoing construction for the bus-on-shoulder lane project. The closure will redirect traffic to the adjacent southbound bridge, which will operate under single-lane conditions in both directions. Motorists are urged to adhere to the reduced speed limit and follow traffic control measures.
A rockslide at Yellow Lake has closed Highway 3A, with crews now assessing the slope's stability. A geotechnical evaluation indicates that further blasting and rock removal are necessary before cleanup can commence, and the highway is expected to remain closed until at least April 18, 2025. A detour is available for affected traffic, adding approximately 70 minutes to travel time.
The Province of British Columbia is proposing legislative changes to its graduated licensing programs aimed at enhancing road safety and accessibility for new drivers and motorcyclists. Key changes include eliminating the second road test for obtaining a Class 5 license and introducing a new Motorcyclist Licensing Program with specific requirements for safety gear. These updates are designed to address barriers faced by Indigenous and rural communities, ultimately aiming to reduce serious injuries and fatalities on the roads.
BC Transit is set to enhance bus services in Whistler, introducing increased frequency and extended hours on multiple routes starting April 22, 2025. The expansion, which adds 6,000 annual service hours, aims to improve transit accessibility and reduce congestion in the region. Local officials emphasize the importance of reliable public transportation for community connectivity and economic equity.
The British Columbia government is allocating over $5 million to enhance emergency support services for evacuees through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund. This funding aims to improve local capacities for disaster response, emphasizing volunteer training and equipment acquisition. Key projects include initiatives in various communities, including First Nations, to bolster emergency readiness.
Josie Osborne, the Minister of Health, issued a statement on April 10, 2025, recognizing Indigenous Nurses Day in British Columbia. The statement celebrated the significant contributions of Indigenous nurses to healthcare and emphasized the importance of culturally safe practices in improving health outcomes for Indigenous Peoples. Notable figures, such as Charlotte Edith Anderson Monture and Rose Casper, were highlighted for their pioneering roles in nursing.
The B.C. government has implemented a directive aimed at reducing dependency on U.S. suppliers by reviewing all contracts with American companies. Premier David Eby emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses and reducing reliance on the U.S., urging government entities to seek Canadian alternatives. This initiative reflects a broader trend of prioritizing domestic procurement in response to changing consumer preferences.