BC Ferries is beginning work on its $3.7 million Snug Cove Terminal improvement project this week, with the work including strengthening structural elements, improving walkways, repairing damaged concrete and creating access platforms for maintenance workers.
The project, which is expected to be complete by the end of March, is resulting in ferry service schedule changes to accommodate the work, including a modified schedule from Tuesdays to Sundays and full-day berth closures on weekends.
To help commuters, water taxi service is complimentary for daily cancellations and berth closures, as well as free shuttle service from the Snug Cove water taxi to the transit park and ride during full-day berth closures and evening sailing cancellations, according to BC Ferries.
Discounted/free parking is also being offered at Horseshoe Bay.
Full-day berth closures are scheduled for Jan. 20, Feb. 3-4 and March 9. Vehicle service also will not be available on these days, BC Ferries said.
“The Snug Cove terminal is used extensively by daily commuters, school-aged children, residents, emergency services and tourists and that’s why we’re working hard overnight to minimize any impact during the day,” BC Ferries Vice President of Engineering Stephen Jones said.
Snug Cove’s berth has seen significant vehicle and foot traffic over the years. As the island’s only point of access for drivers and carriers of commercial products, the terminal runs 15 to 16 trips daily and about 5,666 trips annually, according to BC Ferries.