Changes are coming to the Campbell River Courthouse, and it’s all in an effort to deter its entryway from being a gathering point for the city’s vulnerable population.
Oftentimes, the sidewalks lining the building are packed with litter and trash left behind by those who take shelter under the front overhang.
The City isn’t responsible for the maintenance or operation of government buildings, so council’s been asking the province to make some improvements.
It wants CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) practices to come into play, to help with the ongoing issues the building continues to face.
A letter addressed to council from director of asset portfolio for the Real Property Division, Matthew Andrews, highlighted some upgrades planned for the exterior of the building.
He says it’s understood that so-called “disturbances” in this area of town are sparking concern.
This past October, four people overdosed on the courthouse steps. Then, a few weeks later, a man was murdered just down the street in front of the Royal Bank.
However, Andrews ensured that the province is committed to making sure the courthouse is a safe and secure part of the community.
“As you know, the Real Property Division of the Ministry of Citizens’ Services is responsible for administration and operation of real estate services in government buildings and we are working to address the situation at the Campbell River Courthouse,” Andrews says.
According to Andrews, a project was launched last May to beef up the entryway of the building with a retractable iron gate. This new gate is set to be installed early this year.
“This ironwork will prevent access to the covered space outside of operating hours,” he says. “Anticipated completion of this project is early 2021, and we are confident that this will have a significant positive impact on the situation.”
To date, Andrews says more lighting has been installed to the sides and back of the building.
“Additionally, our contracted service provider will ensure compliance with the 2 to 4-foot landscaping ratio going forward, which should alleviate much of the lighting and sightline concerns on site.”
Andrews adds that the installation of cameras in public areas is limited by the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, so he says the province is now reviewing existing camera installations to determine whether or not it’s a viable solution.
