The municipalities along the Gorge Waterway and Portage Inlet are seeking public input as they develop a coastal flood adaptation strategy together.
According to a joint news release from the municipalities of Victoria, Esquimalt, Saanich and View Royal, residents will have an opportunity to share their opinions on the project by completing a survey, sharing "important" places along the waterway on an interactive map, and participating in a community pop-up event.
"Share your feedback on what areas you value most along the Gorge. Input will help shape adaptation options to protect homes, businesses, infrastructure and natural areas from current flood risks and rising sea levels caused by climate change," noted the release.
The feedback received will inform the Gorge Coastal Flood Adaptation Strategy, a collaboration between Victoria, Esquimalt, Saanich and View Royal, with support from the Capital Regional District.
The next phase involves a technical study to assess flood and infrastructure risks, a more detailed analysis of site-specific risks from rising sea levels, and the development of recommended adaptation options for the strategy.
The partner municipalities received $350,000 to develop the plan through the provincial Community Emergency Preparedness Fund, under the Disaster Risk Reduction-Climate Adaptation stream.
Engagement is open until Sept. 30. To learn more, visit engage.victoria.ca/gorge-flooding.
