Fourth Street/Gibson Street Upgrades

The District of Tofino is undertaking an infrastructure improvement project along sections of Fourth Street and Gibson Street in 2024 and 2025. This project aims to enhance the town's infrastructure, ensuring safety, connectivity, and environmental sustainability.

Key Project Components

Fourth Street Watermain Replacement:

• Reason: The existing asbestos cement (AC) watermain, installed in 1960, has reached the end of its useful life, as evidenced by frequent and severe watermain breaks.
• Solution: The AC water main will be replaced with a modern 200mm (8”) PVC water main, increasing water conveyance capacity, resilience to breaks and leaks, and adherence to contemporary standards.
• Benefits: Enhanced water flow, reduced maintenance costs, and minimized risk of failure, particularly during peak summer months.

Pedestrian Improvements:

• Sidewalk Development: A new 1.5-meter-wide sidewalk will be constructed to connect Wickaninnish Community School and the new daycare to Campbell Street.
• Safety and Connectivity: The raised sidewalk will link to existing sidewalks on Fourth Street and Malon Lane, providing a safe route for pedestrians, including children, from downtown to suburban areas. This route will feature drop-down curb ramps and painted crosswalks for improved accessibility.
• Drainage Improvement: Drainage along Fourth Street will be improved through adjusted catch basins, curbs, and slope considerations.

Environmental Considerations:

• Floral Relocation: Existing floral features will be relocated and reused in the public right-of-way.
• Wildlife Protection: Bird nesting surveys and amphibian sweeps will be conducted as needed.
• Erosion Control: A sediment and erosion control plan will be implemented to protect the environment during construction.

Project Details:

• Budget: Approximately $1,025,000
• Funding Sources:
  • C&I Levy Road
  • C&I Levy Water
  • Development Cost Charges (DCC’s) for Road and Water
• Completion Date: Fall 2024
• Traffic and Water Service Disruptions: Expect minor delays with single-lane alternating traffic and 10-15 minute delays during full road closures for water main tie-ins and crossings.