Courtenay Annual Report 2025 draft

Evolve e-bike and e-scooter expansion The City reviewed a request from BCAA’s Evolve program and the Comox Valley Regional District in 2025 to expand the regional e-bike share service to include electric kick-scooters. Staff assessed legislative requirements and operational considerations under the province’s Electric Kick Scooter Pilot Project. Council endorsed renewing the existing e-bike agreement and directed staff to evaluate next steps for a potential e-scooter launch, including safety, enforcement and regulatory alignment. The province also released first-year results from the pilot project, along with public education materials outlining legal requirements for devices and riders. This review supports informed decision-making around expanding sustainable transportation options in Courtenay.

Safe and Active Schools program

In 2025, the City of Courtenay launched the Safe and Active Schools (SAS) program in partnership with School District 71 to improve safety and encourage walking, cycling and other active travel to school. The program focuses on school travel planning, data collection and community engagement to identify barriers and prioritize improvements through infrastructure, programs and policy. It builds on earlier traffic safety initiatives, including reduced speed limits near schools. Over the next three years, the City will work with up to three schools annually. The first participating schools for 2025–26 are École Puntledge Park Elementary, Courtenay Elementary and Valley View Elementary. SAS supports the Official Community Plan and Transportation Master Plan, contributing to safer, healthier neighbourhoods for children and families. Lake Trail Multi-Use Pathway Phase 1 of the Lake Trail Multi-Use Pathway was completed in fall 2025, improving safety and connectivity between Lake Trail Community School and Arden Road. The project included a 620-metre gravel multi-use path, upgraded bike lanes between Arden Road and Webb Road, bus stop improvements and drainage upgrades. Construction began in September 2025 and concluded in November, with a community celebration held on November 4 to mark completion. The project was funded in part through the Province of B.C.’s Active Transportation Infrastructure Grants Program, with support from the Comox Valley Regional District. Planning for a Phase 2 extension toward Arden Elementary is underway, pending environmental approvals. courtenay.ca/lake-trail-mup

Active transportation and pavement renewal

The City continued coordinated investment in active transportation and pavement renewal to improve safety, comfort and connectivity for people walking, cycling and rolling across Courtenay. Work aligned with the Transportation Master Plan and was delivered alongside capital renewal projects to maximize efficiency and community benefit. These efforts support all-ages-and-abilities travel, strengthen neighbourhood connections and advance the City’s climate and mobility goals.

Evolve e-bikes at City Hall

Lake Trail Multi-Use Pathway ribbon cutting