The Mayor and Council of the District of Sooke have been concerned about public safety when members of the public launch their boats at the public boat launch and park their trucks and trailers on the narrow edge of West Coast Road, leaving little room for pedestrians to safely maneuver around them. In order to address this issue, Mayor Maja Tait and Council have directed staff to negotiate an affordable lease option to provide off road parking at the bottom of Maple Avenue.
Brian Butler, the owner of the property, was pleased to accommodate the District’s request. The area of the parking lot is 210 x 80 meters with parking for approximately 12-15 trucks and trailers (size dependent). There is a 212 meter gravel walk way (1 .5 meter wide) that provides a scenic walk from the parking area to a point on the West Coast Hwy, approximately 100 meters east of the boat launch access road.
“We are thrilled to be in a position to address this public safety issue”, said Mayor Tait.
Hours of operation are dawn to dusk with no over night parking allowed. The parking area will be monitored by District staff to ensure no over night camping or lengthy stays occur, in an effort to provide fair and equitable access for everyone. Parking on West Coast Road will be prohibited in this area and owners who park on West Coast Road near the public boat launch will be subject to towing.
About the District of Sooke
Incorporated in 1999, the District of Sooke is a vibrant community of roughly 12,000 residents. Sooke residents enjoy a strikingly beautiful seaside location on the southwest coast of Vancouver Island. Home to a world-renowned art show, fine dining, and locally famous mom & pop shops, Sooke offers an affordable and typically west coast lifestyle close to nature, pristine parks, forests and offers community amenities like the SEAPARC Leisure Complex. Sooke boasts a growing economic base due to its easy proximity to bustling Langford and the provincial capital Victoria, as well as affordable property and new venture-friendly business initiatives.
For more information, see www.sooke.ca
MEDIA CONTACT:
Teresa Sullivan
Chief Administrative Officer
tsullivan@sooke.ca
250-516-9664