Key Issue: Transportation & Infrastructure

Climate change and major weather events such as those experienced across British Columbia in the summer and fall of 2021 turned a spotlight on supply chain vulnerabilities and the devastating economic impacts of temporary closures of critical transportation routes to the provincial and national economy. The need to implement solutions for the safe and timely […]

To maximize the benefits of taxpayer dollars spent on public infrastructure projects and ensure that all qualified BC companies and employees can work on and benefit from these projects, an open and fair tendering must be the process by which governments implement public projects. Background In July 2018, the BC Government announced a new approach […]

Efficiently moving people and goods is essential for economic growth and for building a prosperous future for the province, its communities and its citizens. The economies of the Okanagan Valley and the southern Interior are inextricably linked to that of BC, Canada, and to our trading partners in the United States. The severing of highway […]

Ridesharing is a key sector in the sharing economy. Among other criteria, drivers have been through appropriate criminal record and driver safety screening to be able to use their personal vehicle to connect with a rider via a smartphone. Ridesharing is currently available in hundreds of cities around the world, providing a new transportation option […]

There are currently 71 public libraries across BC, serving rural communities as small as 400 and urban communities with 600,000+ people. Provincial funding for public library service funding has been frozen since 2010 ($14M). Alarmingly, BC libraries have not been eligible for federal pandemic support such as those provided by programs like CEWS, CERS, or […]

Urban productivity, livability, and local community investment depends on the efficient and smooth movement of people, goods, and services. As urban areas continue to grow, new infrastructure, demand management tools, and innovative solutions will be required to maintain an efficient flow of people, goods, and services. Background Canada, and B.C., are becoming highly urbanized. Urban […]

Canadian families and businesses rely on municipalities to manage and provide transportation networks including road maintenance and public transit, policing and public safety measures, social services and housing, water and wastewater services, waste management and recycling, climate action, GHG reductions and resiliency, parks, recreation, libraries and culture, and public health including community vaccinations. Asset Management […]

Northern British Columbia plays an integral role in the overall economy of British Columbia. Northern exports per capita are 50% above the provincial per capita export amount. The ongoing growth of exports leaving Canada via the Port of Prince Rupert, and other northwestern ports, to key Asian markets continues to validate the importance of safe […]

This week, the provincial government announced that it is proceeding with a replacement of the George Massey Tunnel. In response to the announcement, the BC Chamber of Commerce President and CEO, Fiona Famulak, released the following statement: “The BC Chamber of Commerce welcomes this week’s announcement that the Government of B.C. will replace the aging […]

The air transportation industry has barely survived the pandemic. The impacts are evident in air cargo, commercial, and leisure transportation flights. The air transportation industry has received some support, however, there is need for a long-term strategy. Many nations in Europe are implementing rapid testing at airports and providing substantial information on the efficacy of […]