The Province has launched a process aimed at finding solutions to the southern island's transportation woes.
The Ministry of Transportation confirms they are looking for a qualified consultant to help develop a transportation strategy for the region -- and will focus as far north as Duncan, and as far west as Sooke.
The process will include looking at transit, cycling, pedestrian movements, marine/ferry travel, rail and existing roads.
The ministry is also exploring potential emergency detour routes that could be activated in the event of a Malahat road closure, and will work with stakeholders like the Capital Regional District and First Nations to ensure all possible options are explored.
A feasibility report for a temporary emergency detour route is expected to be ready by spring. If a suitable detour is identified future engineering work could begin by summer.
A bidding process will identify a shortlist of 3 qualified consultants, with a successful proponent identified by the end of March.
The ministry is also in the process of awarding a contract to begin the design phase of the Malahat Goldstream Park median barrier project. Design work is scheduled to start shortly and will explore building an additional 1.5 kilometres of median barrier north of the West Shore Parkway to just north of Finlayson Arm Road.