Alberni Valley Rail Corridor Study

The final report for the Alberni Valley Rail Corridor Study was presented to ACRD Board of Directors at their meeting on Feb. 25. The study was completed in partnership with Tseshaht First Nation, Hupacasath First Nation, and the City of Port Alberni, and sets out shared interests and goals for the rail corridor. See the full report in the Board Agenda here (beginning on Page 70) - Link to Agenda and Report

In Fall 2025, the ACRD and partners Tseshaht First Nation and Hupacasath First Nation adjusted their approach to their study plans – a necessary step due to the Wesley Ridge Fire over the summer months.

While the study process had been proceeding well with technical reviews of track conditions complete and potential business opportunities being discussed thoroughly by the project partners, the 2025 summer’s wildfire unfortunately impacted key components of the rail line along Cameron Lake. As a result, it impacted the options that were under consideration.

The Working Group adjusted the original project plan and identified viable short-term opportunities given the new reality for the corridor.

What we have heard from the public, and from the Working Group throughout the process is there is interest in seeing the rail corridor be utilized to support local communities.

An announcement by the Province of BC extending funding deadlines for local rail corridor studies like the one underway in the Alberni Valley, will allow the ACRD, Tseshaht and Hupačasath First Nations additional time to develop and discuss information pertinent to identifying the highest and best use of the local section of the island corridor in the context of all other discussions taking place across Vancouver island.

Significant work has already been completed with technical assessments and options analysis underway. Public engagement was held in fall 2024. The Working Group, made up of members of the ACRD, Tseshaht and Hupačasath meet regularly to advance a shared vision.

As technical work from the study continues, the Alberni Valley representatives continue both their active participation with the Island Corridor Foundation and ongoing discussion with neighbouring jurisdictions. .

The next round of engagement is anticipated for Spring 2025, however this will be dependent on the viability of the various uses and options developed by that time. Engagement will likely take place within the communities of the Tseshaht and Hupačasath prior to any Valley-wide engagement, recognizing the impact of the rail corridor on their lands. Engagement with the wider Alberni Valley community will be scheduled for later in the year.

An updated timeline has been posted here on Let’s Connect – the project team will continue to provide updates as the project continues.

The ACRD's Rail Corridor Study Project team is sharing an update on the schedule for completion of the study works.

While originally scheduled to be undertaken in November, the next phase of public engagement on the study will be rescheduled to occur in 2025. This schedule update respects the on-going election process at Tseshaht First Nation, and provides time for continued collaboration with the study Working Group and other parties.

Technical assessment work is continuing, and more information will be available in the new year.

Questions can be shared here at the Let's Connect Page and news updates will be posted here as more details re: timing are available.

Visiting the Alberni District Fall Fair this year? The Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District Rail Corridor Study team invites you to stop by our booth during the fair, from September 5-8.

Come by to:

• Learn more about the study,
• Offer input on what should be included in an Alberni Valley vision for the Island Rail Corridor, and;
• Enter to Win Prizes

“Public engagement and consultation with community members and key community groups is an important component of the project,” said Daniel Sailland, ACRD Chief Administrative Officer. “We want to hear from people about what their goals are for the community and the ideas they have for the corridor.”

Unable to attend the Fall Fair? Check back here to complete a survey that will be live from September 5-26. We'll be asking about potential corridor uses, and options will be available for viewing and comment.

This is the first public engagement stage of the process and it seeks feedback on visioning for the corridor. A summary report of the results of this engagement will be shared with the community when complete.

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Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District, Tseshaht First Nation, and Hupacasath First Nation are working together on a Rail Corridor Study to develop an Alberni Valley vision for the Island Rail Corridor.

The study will involve documenting the history of rail in the Alberni Valley, reviewing existing infrastructure conditions, identifying needs and opportunities for the corridor, culminating in the identification of a preferred option and a strategy for moving that option forward. The study will be completed by HDR Corporation in February 2025.

“How the Island Rail Corridor can and should be used has been a long-standing point of discussion for communities across Vancouver Island, including those within the Alberni Valley. This specific study engages First Nations, impacted communities and interested groups to develop a shared common vision for the future of the corridor. We encourage people to consider and share their views through the lens of business/economic impacts, social, recreational, and cultural possibilities, as well as climate and environmental opportunities.” said Daniel Sailland, Chief Administrative Officer.

Public engagement and consultation with key groups will be an important component of the project as well and will inform the concepts and opportunities considered during the study. A range of opportunities for public participation will be offered, including in-person and online events and tools.

As a result of the 2021 Court of Appeal for British Columbia decision and ensuing action by the Government of Canada and Province of BC, the lands upon which the rail corridor sits are being reverted to the First Nations whose territories the corridor transects.

Input from the Tseshaht and Hupacasath communities is vitally important, as partners in the Rail Corridor Study, as title holders to segments of rail corridor, and on whose traditional territory the rail line is located.

“Ensuring that everyone is involved and able to contribute recognizes the important role of community feedback in creating a future plan for the region,” added Sailland. “It is equally important for Tseshaht and Hupacasath Nations to have the opportunity to explore the possible benefits they may have by engaging these lands. We look forward to working together to learn more about the interests and opportunities that could be available for the corridor and our shared community.”

The project is getting underway now with preliminary reviews and assessments. The first engagement events are expected to be held in September – more information will be shared closer to the date.