Grant Funded Little River Crossing Reaches Major Milestone with Bridge Deck Installation

Friday, September 19, 2025 – The District of Sooke is celebrating an important milestone in the construction of the Little River crossing, with the bridge deck now delivered and being installed on site. Boardwalk construction is also beginning, marking major progress in creating a new active transportation route that will strengthen connections across the community. 

The project remains on track for substantial completion in late fall 2025 and continues to be delivered within budget. Funding is made possible through a $1.3 million federal active transportation grant and a $500,000 provincial active transportation grant.  

The new route will transform what would otherwise be a 4–5 kilometre vehicle trip along Highway 14 into a 600-metre active transportation connection. This short forested trail will cross the Little River, linking Sooke’s town core to the Sunriver neighbourhood and Ravens Ridge Park recreation amenities. It will also integrate into Sooke’s broader transportation network, offering a greener and more direct way to get around. 

Looking ahead, the District has applied for an additional federal active transportation grant to help make the trail more universally accessible. Wayfinding signage and trail amenities to enhance the user experience are also being explored as future additions to the corridor. Timelines for these features will depend on future grant approvals. 

The District is also working in partnership with the T’Sou-ke Nation to develop interpretive signage, which will highlight the natural and cultural significance of the area, ensuring the trail tells the story of place and deepens community connection to the land. 

“This project is a great example of how we can strengthen community connections while enhancing our natural spaces,” says Mayor Maja Tait. “By creating an active transportation route between Sunriver and the town core, we’re making it easier for residents and visitors to move sustainably, while also honouring the cultural and ecological significance of the area.”  

“The installation of the bridge deck is a key moment in bringing this trail connection to life,” adds Emma Taylor, Parks, Facilities and Environmental Services Manager. “From securing multiple grants to navigating the complexities of building this type of infrastructure, the project has been no small undertaking. After the bridge is complete, a boardwalk will take shape extending over the high water and flood zone. The result will be a beautiful, welcoming trail connection for our community.”  

As part of its broader active transportation strategy, the District continues to pursue grants to deliver major capital projects while lessening the impact on general property taxation. Current grant applications under consideration include: 

• A new sidewalk along Highway 14 from Ed Macgregor Park to Whiffin Spit, 
• Multi-modal connections on Otter Point Road from Wadams Way to Rhodonite, and 
• Multi-modal infrastructure along Phillips Road Corridor and the Throup Road Connector Projects. 

To learn more about the District’s grant applications, visit the Grant Status Tracking Table.