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Pipi7íyekw/Joffre Lakes Park will temporarily close from April 25 to May 16, 2025, to allow the Líl̓wat Nation and N͛Quatqua to engage in cultural practices. Starting May 17, visitors over 12 will need a free day-use pass to enter the park. The closures aim to manage visitor use and preserve the natural environment.
Twenty-five affordable homes in Kamloops will remain protected thanks to a $2.8 million investment from B.C.’s Rental Protection Fund. The acquisition by Connective Support Society ensures long-term affordability and stability for residents facing a housing crisis. Minister of Housing Ravi Kahlon emphasized the importance of preserving existing affordable rental housing.
Capilano University in North Vancouver will launch the Fulmer Family Centre for Childhood Studies, providing 74 additional child care spaces and training for early childhood educators. The $25 million project aims to enhance access to affordable child care and increase opportunities for ECE students when it opens in June 2025.
The Government of B.C. is investing up to $11 million in four forestry-sector projects to enhance local manufacturing and create sustainable jobs. Spearhead Timberworks Inc. will receive $7.5 million to expand its timber architecture capabilities, adding over 60 skilled positions in the Nelson area.
British Columbia's Vision Zero Grant Program will distribute $794,991 to 50 communities in 2025 to enhance road safety and support active transportation. The initiative aims to prevent injuries and fatalities, particularly in underserved and Indigenous communities. Officials emphasize the importance of creating safer spaces for all road users.
Thirteen new rental homes opened in Castlegar at Eagle Estates, providing affordable housing for families, seniors, and individuals, including those with developmental disabilities. The development features eight one-bedroom apartments and a five-bedroom staffed living space, supported by Community Living BC. This initiative is part of a broader $19-billion housing investment by the B.C. government.
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.
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.
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.
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.