The Town of Comox is taking significant steps to enhance its economic vitality and address climate change by prioritizing several key initiatives from both the Downtown Economic Development Strategy and the Climate Action Plan. These efforts aim to build a resilient and more sustainable future.
“The Town of Comox is aiming to be a thriving and sustainable community for current residents and future generations,” said Comox Mayor, Nicole Minions. “Through the work of creating our first-ever economic development strategy and climate action plan, we are up for the task of stimulating our local economy and prioritizing climate resilience, so Comox residents and businesses are affected positively with the growth and inevitable change our province is experiencing.”
Highlights of the initiatives Council recently integrated into its Strategic Plan from the Economic Development Strategy include:
- Expansion of employment lands – To promote local economic growth, the Town will look to increase its employment lands, fostering more opportunities for business development and job creation.
- Improved marina-pedestrian connectivity – Enhancing pedestrian access through lighting and signage between the Marina and Comox Avenue will strengthen the downtown experience for residents and tourists alike.
- Host annual forums for economic development – The Town will host annual forums, including Economic Development, Tourism, and Developer’s forums, to engage community partners and drive collaboration across sectors.
- Retail zoning in the downtown – The Town will explore opportunities for retail zoning in the downtown core to support local business and enhance economic vibrancy.
- Floating platform off the breakwater – This initiative will explore the creation of floating breakwater feature to boost the waterfront’s recreational appeal and support tourism.
The Town is also advancing goals out of the Climate Action Plan and Risk Assessment, developed to respond to climate change that sets goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and prepare for future climate impacts.
- Infrastructure future-proofing: Prepare for the long-term effects of climate change by enhancing and upgrading infrastructure.
- Bike parking and EV charging requirements: New developments, particularly multi-family projects, will require more bike parking and electric vehicle stations, supporting sustainable transportation choices.
- Electrification of the Town’s fleet: Where practical and feasible, the Town will transition to electric vehicles and equipment to reduce emissions.
- Residential tree planting program: The Town will explore a program to increase green spaces and improve urban forest management, contributing to community well-being.
- Public awareness of emergency evacuation routes: The Town will pursue increasing public awareness and readiness for emergencies, with a focus on climate-related risks.
Both plans are available for public review on the Town’s website. The Economic Development Strategy/Downtown Enhancement Action Plan can be accessed at comox.ca/edstrategy, while the Climate Action Plan and Risk Assessment can be found at comox.ca/climateplan.
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Media Contact:
Nicole Minions, Comox Mayor
nminions@comox.ca
250-339-2202
Or
Jordan Wall, Chief Administrative Officer
jwall@comox.ca
250-339-2202