Editor:
The Ministry of Transportation and Transit Alternate Route Study did not deliver many surprises. The proposed Gibsons Bypass (via Payne Road) remains a long-term plan, likely decades away. However, the study did include some genuinely encouraging shorter-term recommendations: to prioritize safety and active transportation along Highway 101 through Gibsons between School Road and Lower Road, along with additional intersection improvements, and passing/turning lanes.
While the timing and specifics are vague, this is good news. Well-designed active transportation infrastructure (like sidewalks, bike lanes, and multi-use paths) benefits everyone. Research consistently shows that these improvements encourage more people to walk and cycle, reducing overall vehicle traffic, congestion, and carbon emissions.
This recommendation echoes the Connect the Coast initiative, which advocates and plans for the creation of cycling and pedestrian infrastructure to connect communities along the Highway 101 corridor. Using federal grants, we have commissioned conceptual engineering design drawings for a Gibsons section, which are now 90 percent complete.
Do we want the Ministry of Transportation and Transit to do more? Absolutely. But acting on these specific steps is much needed progress. The sooner these improvements begin, the better for all who live, work, and travel through Gibsons.
Alun Woolliams
TraC / Connect the Coast Director
