People travelling through Parksville along Highway 19A will soon experience easier access to the area by vehicle, bicycle or on foot, as road improvements begin Monday, Sept. 16, 2024.

Seniors and people with disabilities living on low-to moderate-incomes will soon have increased access to affordable housing in Parksville, with construction underway of Kingsley Manor.

Families in the Qualicum school district will no longer pay fees for students riding school buses within their schools’ catchment area thanks to $426,341 in funding under the new provincial Student Transportation Fund.

Pacific Marine Drive has been reopened to vehicle traffic between Lake Cowichan and Port Renfrew. Fire crews have removed danger trees and cleared away debris related to the Spring Road/Lizard Lake along this route.

Upgrades to a key intersection on Highway 19A will improve safety and mobility for motorists, pedestrians, cyclists, local residents and visitors.

Parksville seniors will benefit from a $19,810 age-friendly grant to help create programs or tools that address the needs of the area's older residents.