NDP MLA Lajeunesse says project will build upon work to create safer commutes for Metchosin school community

METCHOSIN – New Democrat MLA Dana Lajeunesse says people in Metchosin commuting to, from, and around Hans Helgesen Elementary will be safer thanks to additional grant funding to build upon road and crossing safety improvements done in recent years.

“Lighted crosswalks help pedestrians be more visible on the road, especially in dark or rainy conditions” said Dana Lajeunesse, MLA for Juan de Fuca-Malahat. “This project at Hans Helgesen Elementary will contribute to greater safety for Metchosin students and community members getting to and from school.”

The District of Metchosin is receiving $11,000 to add pedestrian-activated lights to a crosswalk near Hans Helgesen Elementary. This helps builds upon the $14,360 the District received in 2023/24 to create this crosswalk across Rocky Point Road, with “crosswalk ahead” pavement markings, school zone markings, and a roadside waiting area for pedestrians waiting to cross.

For the fourth year in a row, Vision Zero grants have been awarded to communities around British Columbia to improve road safety. Almost $800,000 is supporting projects in 50 communities, including 15 projects in First Nations communities.

Projects include crosswalks, lighting, speed reduction measures, traffic monitoring, visibility improvements, and more.

By adopting Vision Zero, the New Democrat government is working toward making roads in British Columbia safer for pedestrians, active transportation users and drivers. The Vision Zero Grant Program has given over $3 million in grants since 2021 which have made communities safer across B.C.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2025HLTH0016-000363