Opposition To Courtenay’s 6th Street Bridge Project

Courtenay Council has approved the next step in funding the 6th Street active transportation bridge.

The 6th Street Bridge is intended to enhance walking, cycling and accessibility across the Courtenay River, what the City calls a key step in supporting a more connected and active community.

At its latest meeting, Council gave first, second and third readings to a bylaw authorizing up to $1.245 million in borrowing for 2025, down from the original $4.3 million earmarked in the 2025–2029 Financial Plan.

The City says while the estimated total cost of the project remains at $11.1 million, up from the original estimate of $6.9 million, a revised funding plan has reduced the amount of new debt while keeping the project on schedule.

A group of citizens concerned with the project’s costs recently held a rally at the bottom of 6th Street.

Updated funding breakdown:

• $1.245 million in new borrowing (May 2025)
• $2.5 million borrowed in 2024
• $2.5 million from Infrastructure Canada's Active Transportation Fund
• $1 million from the original Growing Communities Fund
• $1.555 million reallocated from the Growing Communities Fund
• $1 million in unspent funds from 2024
• $500,000 from the Canada Community-Building Fund
• $800,000 from City reserves

To learn more, visit 6th Street Active Transportation Bridge.