Kirk & Co. worked with the B.C. Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure project team on the development and implementation of a two-round engagement program to solicit stakeholder and public feedback on considerations related to the design of the McKenzie Interchange Project on Vancouver Island.
The engagement program was tailored to address the complexity and importance of the new interchange, and included strategic engagement with First Nations, stakeholders, local government and the public. Kirk & Co. assisted the project team in ensuring that all multi-stakeholder interests regarding the design and construction of the new interchange were heard and considered. We facilitated and managed a number of open houses and public information sessions, organized opportunities for online feedback, and produced consultation summary reports summarizing feedback received. In total, more than 1,200 people attended the engagement open houses and the project team received more than 1,700 pieces of feedback.
Kirk & Co. developed visually-compelling and concise engagement materials for both print and online use, including display boards, map graphics, figure charts and infographics. In addition, we provided strategic advice to the project team regarding local government engagement, project communications, issues management and media and message training.
Project
McKenzie Interchange Project
Client
B.C. Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
Scope
Communications, consultation and engagement and graphic design
Background
The McKenzie Interchange Project is a grade-separated interchange on the Trans-Canada Highway, intersecting with Admirals Road and McKenzie Avenue in Saanich. The interchange is a critical link for passengers, transit and commercial vehicles on Vancouver Island. The project was identified by the Province as a priority in B.C. on the Move, the Province of B.C.’s ten-year transportation plan, due to significant safety, congestion and reliability concerns with the current intersection.
The McKenzie Interchange Project is expected to improve traffic flow, increase pedestrian and cycling safety, and reduce collisions and traffic congestion for all users. Construction began in fall 2016 and it is anticipated that the project will be completed in 2020.
