There are a pair of open houses today for Courtenay residents to learn about proposed updates to the Official Community Plan.

The update includes nine strategic changes - what the City calls “Big Moves” - that will guide how Courtenay plans for growth, delivers housing and manages infrastructure and amenities over the next 20 years.

A report last year identified the need for about 8,350 additional homes by 2041. The proposed updates to the OCP respond to that and help plan for Courtenay’s projected population of 42,415 residents by 2041.

The update builds on previous community engagement and planning work to guide smart, inclusive growth. It makes sure new developments and City services align with community priorities across the entire municipality, including growth and land use, streets and transportation, affordable housing, the natural environment, parks and recreation, arts, culture and heritage, food systems and economic development.

The two sessions are happening at the Westerly Hotel on Cliffe Ave, from 11am to 2pm, and 4pm to 7pm.

Learn more at engagecomoxvalley.ca/courtenay-ocp