The contentious Evergreen Line rapid transit project was given yet another rubber stamp of approval, receiving environmental approval from Victoria.
In order to obtain approval, the $1.4 billion, 11-kilometre Skytrain line will need to fulfill 157 environmental commitments to mitigate a list of adverse affects the project will create.
Some of the requirements include: proper installation of erosion and sediment control structures to prevent run-off into creeks affected by the project; implementing a noise and vibration management plan to mitigate noise and vibration-related impacts to residents and businesses; and providing municipalities with 72-hour advance notice for any construction work scheduled beyond acceptable hours, as outlined in municipal noise by-laws.
Changes in 2009 to the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act eliminated the need for a federal environmental review because the project would be funded through specific federal infrastructure funds. However, the project still requires authorization from a number of federal departments, including the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and Transport Canada.
Funding for the Evergreen Line remains unclear with Translink struggling to find a way to raise its share of the construction costs for the project.