BC Ferries announces changes
Powell River travellers on BC Ferries can expect some changes in the coming months. Starting in October, passengers loaded onto the lower car deck of Salish Orca will no longer be able remain in their vehicles and will have to move to the ship’s common areas. The company said the policy puts its operations in line with federal regulations. Passengers with special circumstances may request to be loaded on the upper deck where they may remain in their vehicles.
The other change, a smoking ban, will come into effect January 22, 2018, and put an end to passengers smoking tobacco, marijuana and e-cigarettes on its vessels and at its terminals.
Blast shakes residents
Powell River residents were reminded that Texada Island is still a mining location on August 26.
A spokesperson from Ash Grove Cement, the company that operates the Blubber Bay limestone quarry, confirmed it was responsible for the 10 am blast that shook and startled some Grief Point and Westview residents. Lower Sunshine Coast residents as far away as Halfmoon Bay reported hearing the blast.
City closes pool
City of Powell River announced the aquatic centre at Powell River Recreation Complex will be closed from August 20 to September 18 for annual maintenance and two renovation projects.
The sauna will be rebuilt using local cedar and the swimming pool’s lamps will be replaced using high-efficiency LED lights.
