Latest News in Vancouver, BC

City to trial one-way vehicle circulation on Canada Place for peak cruise ship season

The City of Vancouver plans to implement a one-way vehicle circulation pilot at Canada Place to enhance pedestrian safety and improve traffic flow during the busy cruise ship season. The initiative aims to reduce conflicts between pedestrians and vehicles while also facilitating better access for tour buses and taxis. The pilot will be closely monitored, with potential for permanent changes based on its success.

Statement from City Manager Paul Mochrie on the 2025 By-election

In the recent municipal by-election, voters in Vancouver elected two new city councillors, with a notable voter turnout of 15.09%, which marks a 40% increase from the previous by-election in 2017. City Manager Paul Mochrie expressed gratitude towards voters while acknowledging the extended wait times at polling stations, attributing them to flawed planning. He pledged to learn from these shortcomings to improve future elections.

We all have a role to play upholding election integrity at voting locations

Record-breaking turnout at advance polling in Vancouver, with 7,671 ballots cast, has set a positive tone ahead of general voting day. The Election Office emphasizes the importance of maintaining a respectful environment and outlines specific rules designed to uphold electoral integrity at polling locations. Voters are encouraged to report any inappropriate behavior to election officials to ensure a fair process.

Housing and Municipal Affairs

The article announces an upcoming event organized by the Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs, scheduled for April 4, 2025, in North Vancouver. This event, part of the Historic Site and Landmark Tours, aims to engage the community and shed light on local housing initiatives. With a focus on ECHO Housing, the event highlights the government's commitment to addressing housing needs in the region.

B.C. eliminates carbon tax

The British Columbia government has announced the cancellation of the consumer carbon tax, effective April 1, 2025, as part of a legislative shift aimed at reducing costs for residents. Premier David Eby emphasized the importance of uniting on climate action while ensuring affordability, stating that the tax's divisiveness has become a distraction. The move is projected to save British Columbians significant amounts on fuel and heating costs, although it will also lead to the cancellation of the climate action tax credit.

Expect delays due to Keating off-ramp closure, Highway 17 repairs

Drivers on Highway 17 northbound are facing delays due to emergency repairs near Keating Cross Road, resulting in the full closure of the Keating off-ramp until at least 3 p.m. on March 28, 2025. Motorists are advised to seek alternative routes, such as Island View Road, and exercise caution in the area. The ongoing repair work involves a steel plate on the highway, which is expected to cause delays of at least 20 minutes.

Provincial health officers statement on end of respiratory illness season

Dr. Bonnie Henry, the provincial health officer of British Columbia, has officially declared the end of the 2024-25 respiratory illness season, citing decreasing levels of respiratory illnesses such as influenza, RSV, and COVID-19. With this announcement, additional health measures in healthcare settings will no longer be required, although certain precautions remain in place. The public is encouraged to continue practicing healthy habits to prevent illness spread.

Final list of King Charles III Coronation Medal recipients

The article announces the final recipients of The King Charles III Coronation Medal, awarded by the Government of British Columbia. A total of 537 individuals were recognized for their leadership and achievements, with nominations primarily coming from the B.C. Public Service. The medal commemorates the coronation of King Charles III, which took place on May 6, 2023.

Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills

The Government of British Columbia will host an event focused on post-secondary education and future skills starting March 28, 2025. Parliamentary Secretary Lisa Beare will lead discussions aimed at promoting gender equality in tertiary education. The event concludes on April 14, 2025.

Construction begins on new family student housing project in Merritt

The Nicola Valley Institute of Technology (NVIT) in Merritt is set to expand its on-campus housing and childcare facilities with the construction of a new family housing complex, specifically designed for Indigenous families. This initiative, backed by a $19.6 million investment from the Province, aims to provide stable homes for students and their families, promoting educational success and community engagement. The project is part of a broader effort to enhance student housing across British Columbia.