Path between Uptown Centre, Galloping Goose gets upgrade

Two months of improvements to the walking and cycling connections on the path between Uptown Centre and the Galloping Goose trail got underway Monday.

Working with Capital Region Parks, B.C. Transit and Uptown, Saanich developed a plan to construct a new $300,000 multi-use asphalt pathway.

The pathway will be four metres wide, at accessible grades, with a concrete staircase leading to existing stairs and a new concrete bus stop pad.

As part of the project, the short pedestrian underpass below Carey Road bridge will be closed.

The underpass is “often the site of litter and vandalism, and removing access to this walkway will improve safety without compromising accessibility for those with mobility constraints,” said Saanich engineering director Harley Michaelse in a statement. “The new construction will maintain access to the remainder of the existing pathway.”

Saanich provided about two-thirds of the funding, with Uptown providing the rest.

The eight-week schedule depends on favourable weather conditions.

Only occasional traffic disruptions are expected, as most work will be off roads.

Future cycling and pedestrian amenities adjacent to the Uptown property will be built by the developer as part of its construction plan.

The project is designed to produce an “all-ages, all-abilities connection to future cycling tracks and sidewalks planned for Ravine Way and Carey Road.”