Good news for residents, tourists, and the local economy with a planned $17.4-million investment in upgrades and improvements to the Belleville Ferry Terminal to support ferry services between downtown Victoria and U.S. destinations, Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Todd Stone announced today.

The revitalization of the terminal is a priority outlined in B.C. on the Move, the Province’s new 10-year transportation plan. The Province is embarking on a lease negotiation, which will see the $17.4-million project cost-shared between the Province, the Black Ball Ferry Line and Clipper Navigation Ltd.

The Province is committed to improving B.C.’s transportation infrastructure to ensure the safe and efficient movement of goods and people. The Province is working together with the operators of the MV Coho and Clipper ferries to address the much-needed repairs to both the Black Ball and Clipper wharves. Construction on the new Black Ball wharf is scheduled to begin in October 2015 and is expected to be completed within two years. Repairs to the Clipper wharf will take place over winter 2015.

The Province will also work with the ferry companies and other stakeholders on a shared vision for a revitalized ferry terminal that would make tourists feel welcome and excited to be disembarking right into the heart of the provincial capital. This and other long-term measures are being explored because the ferries provide important economic ties to the United States and create significant trade and tourism opportunities for Victoria and Vancouver Island.

Quotes:

Todd Stone, B.C. Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure -

“It’s critical this important piece of transportation infrastructure is upgraded, starting with the safety improvements to the Black Ball wharves. As part of B.C. on the Move, our new 10-year transportation plan, we are also exploring options for the long-term revitalization of the Belleville Terminal. The terminal supports 4,500 full-time jobs, creating an economic impact of $180 million a year in GDP. It is a critical component of our Pacific Gateway and a key entry point not just into Victoria, but British Columbia and indeed Canada.”

Ryan Burles, president and COO of Black Ball Ferry Line -

“This announcement affirms the value of our ferry service to Victoria and Vancouver Island. It is very good news for our customers and the Victoria gateway. We appreciate the collaborative partnership with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, and we look forward to continuing to improve this vital link for tourism and trade.”

Merideth Tall, president and CEO of Clipper Navigation Ltd. -

“The ministry's leadership and vision within B.C. on the Move is tremendous news for Victoria, Vancouver Island and its people. Minister Stone’s announcement recognizes the importance of our international transportation links for residents, tourists and economic development for both Victoria and British Columbia. Almost 30 years ago, Clipper invested in the potential of this region. We look forward to renewing our commitment and partnering with the local, regional and federal governments to create a fitting transportation facility that will serve Canada's growing economy for the next 30 years and beyond.”

Lisa Helps, mayor of the City of Victoria -

“I would like to thank Minister Stone for the government's long-term investment in this critical transportation infrastructure and for his leadership in making something happen. The City is committed to working in partnership with the Province and has allocated at minimum $1 million in improvements to coincide with the redevelopment of the Belleville Terminal.”

Quick Facts:

• The Belleville Terminal has a major estimated economic impact of $180 million/year GDP.
• It is also expected to support approximately 4,500 full-time jobs in Victoria and Vancouver Island.
• It is a vital border crossing to Pacific Northwest with an estimated $200-$300 million in goods carried annually.

Learn More:

Learn more about B.C. on the Move at: http://engage.gov.bc.ca/transportationplan/

Follow the work of the British Columbia Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure online at: www.tranbc.ca

Media Contacts:

Media Relations
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241