UBC Okanagan Transportation Plan

Overview

Endorsed by UBC Okanagan leadership in October 2021, the UBC Okanagan Transportation Plan is essential for advancing campus development, community well-being, and climate action. It presents a strategic roadmap for addressing the campus transportation needs through 2040, outlining the University’s Vision along with specific objectives, targets, strategies, and actions. The Plan aims to make getting to, from, and around campus more convenient, affordable, and sustainable.

Public Engagement Process

Outlined in Appendix 2: Community Engagement Overview of the UBC Okanagan Transportation Plan, the Plan was developed with input from campus stakeholders, technical analysis, and feedback from the campus community. It incorporates insights from over 500 members of the UBC Okanagan community, gathered through surveys and virtual public open houses on Zoom. For detailed information, please refer to the Public Engagement Summary Report.

Phase 1 was held in November 2020 and included two stakeholder workshops, an online survey, and a virtual public open house (watch the recording).

Phase 2 was held in September 2021 and included four pop-up events, an online survey, and a virtual public open house (watch the recording).

Transportation Plan Summary

Strategies and actions in the Transportation Plan were assessed for their effectiveness, cost, and feasibility, resulting in a set of measures designed to achieve the Plan’s Vision. Unlike a “Business-As-Usual” approach, the Plan aims to reduce overall trips to and from campus, ensuring that future growth in trips is met through active and sustainable modes such as walking, cycling, and transit.

The successful implementation of the Plan depends on ongoing support from UBCO, investments in sustainable transportation by the City of Kelowna, BC Transit, and other regional and senior government partners. This approach will reduce the need for additional parking on campus and lower greenhouse gas emissions from commuting.

Outcomes

Enhanced Public Transit Options

The Plan introduces a discounted monthly transit pass for staff and faculty, similar to the existing U-Pass for students, to encourage greater use of transit. We are also working closely with the City of Kelowna and BC Transit to enhance transit service to and from campus, addressing community concerns such as long wait times, limited neighborhood coverage, and low service frequencies.

Improved Cycling Infrastructure

The Plan enhances cycling infrastructure with expanded secure bike parking and end-of-trip facilities. It also introduces new shared micromobility options, such as e-bikes and e-scooters, to facilitate short-distance travel to, from, and around campus.

Enhanced Carpooling Accessibility

The Plan aims to make carpooling more accessible and appealing to the campus community by offering incentives and resources, including a new ride-matching service. It also introduces incentives for pooled or shared trips in ride-hailing and car-share vehicles.

Support for Remote Working and Learning

The Plan strengthens policies and practices to encourage and facilitate remote working, learning, and teaching, supporting greater flexibility for the campus community.

Reduced Need for Off-Campus Travel

The Plan continues to implement the 2015 Campus Plan, which promotes a compact campus with integrated academic facilities, community amenities, and student housing. Additionally, it commits to advocating for and collaborating with the City of Kelowna on sustainable land use planning to support increased housing options and amenities on and around campus.