GIBSONS – NDP MLA Randene Neill says improvements to a busy stretch of Highway 101 along the Sunshine Coast will enhance safety for pedestrians and drivers.
“My heart remains heavy for the family and loved ones of the person who tragically passed away this past December after an accident on Highway 101 in Gibsons,” said Randene Neill, MLA for Sunshine Coast-Powell River. “I am grateful for the community and local government’s advocacy and the quick work of the Ministry of Transportation to implement these incredibly important upgrades that will help keep people in our communities and visitors to the coast safer.”
The Ministry of Transportation and Transit is extending the 60 km/h speed limit on Highway 101 from Henry Road to Lower Road. As well, a new pedestrian crossing will be installed at Poplars Trailer Park, along with a new pedestrian traffic signal at Woodcreek Park. Design work is currently underway for these upgrades.
The improvements come in response to a safety review conducted after a fatal collision along Highway 101 near Gibsons in December 2024. The review assessed the location, including its condition, speed limit and nearby signs to develop the upgrades.
The improvements at Poplars Trailer Park are expected to complete this spring, and the new pedestrian signal at Oceanview Drive is expected to complete in fall 2025. The extension of the 60 km/h speed limit will happen after these intersection improvements are installed. As part of these Pavement markings will also be refreshed and edge lines through this section will also be widened to help delineate the highway shoulders and provide increased awareness to drivers.
The ministry will also enhance safety on Highway 101 at Shorncliffe Avenue in the District of Sechelt. Improvements will include a full signalization of the intersection with turning lanes, to ease pedestrian and traffic movements. Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
People are asked to take extra care while travelling in the area as work gets underway, and drivers are reminded to obey all safety signage and check DriveBC for the most up-to-date information.
QUOTES:
Silas White- Mayor of Gibsons
“These critical upgrades and the speed reduction come as a result of passionate and persistent local advocacy. We are grateful to our MLA Randene Neill and the Ministry of Transportation for listening, and to the Province of BC for sharing our vision that pedestrian safety must be paramount.”
Donna McMahon- Area E Director for the Sunshine Coast Regional District
“I want to thank the Province for taking action on Highway 101, and at the same time acknowledge that this outcome is the result of years of relentless campaigning by community members who want to be able to walk, cycle, and catch the bus safely in our neighbourhoods. My deepest thanks go to the residents of Poplars and Woodcreek Park, the Elphinstone Community Association, and all the others who have held meetings, phoned, written, and emailed. It took a village to build a crosswalk.”
John Henderson- Mayor of Sechelt
“Councils and residents have advocated for safety improvements including a signalized intersection at this location for many years. This has long been a dangerous crossing for pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles alike. On behalf of Council, we appreciate the Ministry stepping up to make this happen.”