Following a council meeting this week, the District of Saanich has given staff new direction on next steps for the Quadra McKenzie Plan (QMP).
The matter, which Mayor Dean Murdock called “the main event” was discussed in the February 24th council meeting.
After phase three of public input on the QMP, the District staff summarized what community feedback had been provided and made recommendations to council based on this information.
The QMP is a process in which Saanich hopes to guide growth in the region over the next 20 years with a primary focus on transportation and land use.
The aim is to transition the Quadra and McKenzie areas into “livable, complete streets.”
Based on the over 3,300 responses to public input processes, the key themes of feedback were:
- Support for higher density developments near transit hubs
- Support for major transit stop locations
- Concerns over reduction of lanes for motorists and possible traffic congestion
- Concerns over preservation of neighbourhood character
- Concerns over sensitivity to environment, traffic, safety, parking and active transportation connectivity
- High level of support for parks, trails and open spaces involved in the plan
Based on this feedback, District staff presented council with options on transportation and land use to move forward with the next steps of the QMP.
What was ultimately decided by council was to revise the land use framework with a focus on reducing density in the Quadra North area, defer modifications of McKenzie Avenue vehicle lanes and transit priority measures until consultation can be had with BC Transit and launch another round of community engagement once a new draft QMP.
“We appreciate people taking the time to share their opinions on this long-term vision for the future of this important area,” said Mayor Murdock.
“We’ve heard you, and we’re making refinements to ensure the QMP can address Saanich’s growth while also making life better for residents over time.”
He added that this is a plan that belongs to all Saanich residents, and it will continue to evolve in order to respond to the needs of the community.
“We encourage folks to be part of the next phase and look forward to hearing from you as we move towards finalizing this critical plan,” Murdock concluded.
Another check-in on the QMP is expected to take place in the summer or fall of this year, once a new draft can be drawn up with the necessary revisions.
More information on the QMP is available via the District of Saanich’s website.
