Albina Gorge Tillicum Upgrades

Why are we doing this project?

We want safer roads for all road users across Saanich, and in the Gorge Tillicum Area. This project will realize priorities identified in Saanich’s Official Community Plan, Active Transportation Plan, and Road Safety Action Plan and among other planning documents. And will fill existing gaps in our cycling network connecting City of Victoria and Esquimalt.

Gorge Road (between Tillicum and Harriet) has pedestrian and bicycle network improvements that are priorities in the Active Transportation Plan (2024).

What we are doing:

307 meters of sanitary sewer replacement
478 meters of storm drain replacement
Albina Lift Station Replacement
Protected cycling facilities
Tactile walking strip indicators for visually impaired.
Intersection upgrades at Gorge and Tillicum, Gorge and Harriet, Tillicum and Arena
Boulevard landscaping
improved street lighting
External utility relocation of Fortis, Hydro and Telus
Bus stop relocations and service improvements

Construction

Construction is expected to take approx. 24 months to complete. And will be completed in a phased approach.

Phase 1 – Lift Station (2026)
Phase 2 – Test and Injection Grouting (2026)
Phase 3 – Active Transportation Upgrades (2027)

During construction, you can expect typical construction inconveniences such as more noise and road closures with access to local traffic only. Contractors are expected to ensure there is always a safe pedestrian access and that residents can access their properties. We expect that businesses will be able to operate as normal and that there will not be any direct impacts to the services they provide.

Saanich will be working closely together with the contractor to minimize the impacts of the construction on the residents and business owners and appreciate your understanding and patience as we work to complete this exciting project for your community.

Public Engagement

Thank you to everyone who participated during the public information session for the planned improvements on Albina Gorge and Tillicum on October 21st. Below is the information presented at the open house

Information Session Material: