Introduction Location/Map Climate Municipal Government/History Community Services/Facilities

Communications Real Estate Transportation Education Insurance

Utilities 101 Things to Do Community Contacts Acknowledgments More Links

Introduction

This community profile has been produced to answer the most frequently asked questions about the Comox Valley. We hope the wealth of information offered is of use to you whether you are a business person or a potential "newcomer." Welcome to our beautiful valley!

This profile does not include any statistical information. If you are interested in a detailed statistical profile of the Valley (including demographics, real estate, major employers etc.), we encourage you to contact Invest Comox Valley (250) 334-2427) or go online to their website, www.investcomoxvalley.com

This community profile has been researched and published by the Chamber of Commerce. Written permission must be obtained from the Chamber of Commerce before any or all information is used or duplicated in any way. A printed version of this Community Information may be obtained at the Chamber office (for a small fee), or you may download a copy here.

Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce
2040 Cliffe Avenue
Courtenay, BC V9N 2L3
Ph: (250) 334-3234 - Fax. (250) 334-4908
Toll Free: 1-888-357-4471
E-Mail: admin@comoxvalleychamber.com
Website: http://www.comoxvalleychamber.com

Location

Comox Valley is situated mid-way on Vancouver Island's East Coast. It is bordered on the west by the Beaufort Mountains with its breathtaking Comox Glacier and Strathcona Park, and on the east by the Strait of Georgia, Comox Harbour, and Baynes Sound. The Valley extends south to Fanny Bay and north to the Oyster River. Within its boundaries are the municipalities of Courtenay, Comox, and Cumberland.

Climate

The region enjoys short, mild winters and warm, dry summers. Weather systems that bring heavier rainfall and storms generally pass over us enroute to the mainland. The Comox Valley is one of the few places in Canada where, in the winter months, one can ski in the morning and golf in the afternoon.

Average Temperatures

Source : CFB Comox Weather Services Unit : 50 years averages

Average Precipitation /Hours of Sunshine

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	Total
Precip. mm	179	120	100	53	32	32	21	30	38	120	180	189	1094
Precip. inch	7.16	4.8	4.0	2.12	1.28	1.28	.84	1.2	1.52	4.8	7.2	7.56	43.76
													.
Hours of sun	59	86	128	184	232	231	307	275	225	110	60	40	1937

Municipal Government/History

(Information courtesy of Comox Valley Economic Development Society)

The three Municipalities and the portion of the Regional District that comprise the Comox Valley are unique and distinctive from each other. Although the people, business and infrastructure are intertwined, each jurisdiction has its own history and cultural make up. Within the Comox Strathcona Regional District's Electoral Areas A, B, C, & K many different regional characteristics can be distinguished. This is due to the large area it encompasses to the North and to the South of Courtenay and Comox, as well as Denman and Hornby Islands.

Town of Comox

Komuckway means "plenty" in the local Native tongue and there certainly is plenty of wildlife and natural resources in the Comox Valley. European settlers adapted the name to Komoux, then finally to Comox. Comox has long been a proud Military Town, with roots going back to it's first Navel Training Base in 1876. Today the Canadian Armed Forces base operates the airfield and the Bi-Annual Airshow attracts people from across the continent. The Town of Comox is located directly East of Courtenay, extending out onto the Comox Peninsula that creates the Comox Harbor. The Comox land area is 14.20 square km (5.48 square miles or 1420 hectares) Comox was Incorporated on January 14, 1946. According to BC Stats annual population estimates, the population of Comox in 2003 was 11,937.

Both Courtenay and Comox have intertwined economies with residents using services from each area regardless of their home location. The most seaside-like community of all of the jurisdictions within the Valley, Comox has many marinas and water based businesses and attractions. The Town is home to the Canadian Armed Forces Base CFB Comox 19 Wing, St. Joseph's Hospital and the B.C. Ferries terminal to Powell River.

City of Courtenay

Courtenay was named after Rear Admiral George William Courtenay who sailed the HM Constance along the Coast of Vancouver Island over 150 years ago. Courtenay is a cosmopolitan center with excellent shopping accommodation and restaurants.

The City of Courtenay has the second largest population of the four main regions within the Comox Valley, after the combined rural areas A, B, C & K of the Regional District. It serves as the regional center for business, recreation, and tourism. Incorporated on January 1, 1915 the City, according to 2001 Stats Canada information, covered approximately 17.02 square Kilometers of land area. (1702 Hectares or 6.57 square miles.)

Courtenay's population grew by over 45% between the 1991 and 1996 census years giving it the distinction of being one of the fastest growing communities in the Province. This is one of the contributing reasons that the Comox Valley Provincial - Electoral Riding Boundaries had to change for the recent Provincial Election. According to BC Stats annual population estimates, the population of Courtenay in 2003 was 20,340.

High growth, along with the new four lane Island Highway expansion to Campbell River and access to both water and air links to Vancouver, indicate that the City of Courtenay will play a large part in the future development of the Comox Valley.

Village of Cumberland

When coal was discovered here in the last century, the area suddenly enjoyed the popularity of a gold-rush town. Coal was a precious commodity needed to fuel the large fleet of British navy ships, which sailed the Pacific. Cumberland was formed and was soon swelling with entrepreneurial miners and get rich quick hopefuls. Chinese labour was hired and a thriving city of 10,000 people was quickly established. Over time the population declined to its present numbers. Cumberland owes its existence to the large amounts of coal discovered in those early years. Interestingly, opportunities now exist that could revive the coal mining attributes of this quaint and respected community

Today Cumberland is considered a Historic Village, and is located approximately nine-km to the South West of Courtenay. It is the oldest of the three larger communities within the Comox Valley and celebrated its 100th anniversary in 1998. Cumberland had a population of approximately 2618 in 2001 and covers about 29.74 Square km in land area. (11.48 square miles, 2974 hectares). Today the village is home to a variety of shops and services, including a unique Museum, an auction house, antiques and collectibles, live entertainment venues and a variety of restaurants. Situated against the Beaufort Mountain Range it is an excellent location to access the numerous parks and trails located just to the West. New boundary expansion in 2002 has added 22 sq km to the Village. According to BC Stats annual population estimates, the population of Cumberland in 2003 was 2,747.

Comox Strathcona Regional District:

Electoral Areas A, B, C, and K

The Comox Strathcona Regional District (CSRD) is one of 27 Regional Districts spanning the Province of British Columbia. "The Regional District system is the Province's way of ensuring that all residents have access to common services" (B.C. Municipal Redbook). Regional Districts act as a unifying agent in partnership with the Municipalities and Areas within their particular boundaries.

To the South of Courtenay the region covers the communities of Fanny Bay, Buckley Bay, Union Bay, and Royston. To the North it covers the communities of Black Creek, Saratoga Beach and Merville. Much of the area is rural, with some agricultural lands and many parks and forests. The surrounding mountains are the home of the Forbidden Plateau Recreation Area of Strathcona Park, and the site of BC's 2nd busiest ski hill… Mount Washington!

The Comox Strathcona Regional District's Electoral Areas A, B, C, & K, cover approximately 1643.11 square km (634.41 square miles or 164,311 hectares.) The area is an important contributor to the Comox Valley as it comprises the largest land area and approximately 40% of the population resides within its boundaries.

Regional communities that fall within the Comox Valley and the Regional District Areas A, B, C, and K, offer small specialty shops and various recreational or tourism based opportunities. The residents of these areas frequently commute to Comox, Courtenay, and Cumberland for work or to use the area's various services.

Community Services/Facilities

Health Care

St. Joseph's Hospital and Extended Care Unit
2137 Comox Avenue, Comox, BC
Phone: (250) 339-2242
Website: www.stjosephs-comox.org
Services include a Diabetes Education Centre, Emergency Department, Psychiatric Outpatient Services, Substance Abuse Intervention Program.

Cumberland Health Centre
2696 Windermere Avenue, Cumberland, BC
Phone: (250) 336-8531
Services include a Laboratory, Pharmacy, Respite Care, Intermediate Care

Vancouver Island Health Authority
Box 400, Cumberland BC, V0R 1S0
Finance and Administration
2660 Dunsmuir Avenue, Cumberland BC
Phone 336-3200

Crisis Mental Health Services
941C England Avenue, Courtenay BC
Phone 338-9777

Seniors, Home & Community Services
941A England Avenue, Courtenay BC
Phone 338-5453

Comox Valley Community Health Centre (Public Health Nursing)
961 England Avenue, Courtenay BC
Phone 338-1711

Mental Health Crisis Services
961C England Avenue, Courtenay BC
Phone 339-1494

Religion

Churches and other places of worship

Over thirty churches and other places of worship serve the spiritual needs of the Valley. Many of the churches sponsor a variety of social and other community service activities. The Comox Valley Ministerial Association holds interdenominational events throughout the year.

Alliance
Living Hope Christian Fellowship
223-2270 Cliffe Ave., Courtenay
334-9777

Church of St. John the Divine
579 5th St., Courtenay
334-4331

Anglican

Church of St. John the Divine
579 5th St., Courtenay
334-4331

St. Peter's Church
218 Church St., Comox
339-2925

Baptist
Comox Community Baptist Church
1250 Anderton Rd., Comox
339-0224

Courtenay Fellowship Baptist Church
2963 Lake Trail Rd., Courtenay
334-3432

Buddhist
Sherab Chamma Ling Tibetan Bon
Buddhist Centre
218-2270 Cliffe Ave., Courtenay
334-0306

Catholic
Christ the King Catholic Church
1599 Tunner Dr., Courtenay
334-4716

Charismatic
Harvest Gate Christian Fellowship
2364 Rosewall Cres., Courtenay
703-2970

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
1901 20th St., Courtenay
334-2523

Congregational Christian Church
Bay Community Church
1105 Pritchard Rd., Comox
339-7527

Cumberland Community Church
2732 Penrith Ave., Cumberland
336-8801

Episcopal
Living Word Episcopal Church
4778 North Island Hwy, Courtenay
334-9673

Evangelical
Central Evangelical Free Church
4-478 5th St., Courtenay
338-7727

Foursquare Gospel Church
Foursquare Church
1640 Burgess Rd., Courtenay
334-2727

Gospel
Elim Gospel Church
566 5th St., Courtenay
334-2823

Inter-Denominational
Calvary Community Church
334-8424

Lutheran
Faith Lutheran Church
1688 McPhee Ave., Courtenay
334-2141

Shepherd of the Valley
339-3933

Mennonite
United Mennonite Church
2277 Enns Rd., Black Creek
337-5341

Mennonite Brethren
Mennonite Brethren Church
7898 N. Island Hwy., Black Creek
337-5423

Pentecostal
Comox Pentecostal
339-4698

Living Waters Fellowship
2222 Regent Rd., Black Creek
337-5053

Valley United Pentecostal
1814 Fitzgerald Rd., Courtenay
338-7877

Presbyterian
Comox Valley Presbyterian Church
725 Aspen Rd., Comox
339-2882

Salvation Army
Salvation Army
1580 Fitzgerald Ave., Courtenay
338-8221

Seventh-Day Adventist
Seventh-Day Adventist Church
1424 Krueger, Merville
337-5258

Unitarian
Comox Valley Unitarian Fellowship
944 2nd St., Courtenay
338-4956

United Church of Canada
Comox United
250 Beach Dr., Comox
339-3966

Denman Island United Church
4575 Denman Rd., Denman Island
335-1103

St. George's United Church
505 6th St., Courtenay
334-4961

Unity
North Island Unity Church
1590 Cliffe Ave., Courtenay
897-1987

Multicultural Groups/Service Clubs

A variety of cultural groups make their home in the Comox Valley along with many service and fraternal clubs. The cultural groups include: Association Francophone, Ukrainian Cultural Society, First Nations Support Program, and the Multicultural Society. The Service clubs include Kinsmen, Kiwanis, Rotary, and Lions, and the Fraternal organizations include Beta Sigma Phi, Knights of Columbus, Pythian Sisters, and Shriners. A complete list may be obtained through the CV Chamber of Commerce/Visitor Info Centre.

Welcome Wagon
Community Welcome
Phyllis Haggins-Lapp 334-2848
Mary Lynn Doubinin 338-9448
Baby Welcome, Baby Showers & Bridal Showcases
Wendy Harris 335-1936
Vancouver Island
(Victoria): (250) 477-2220
http://www.welcomewagon.ca/en/

Recreation/Sports

If you are looking for year -round recreation and sports you need not look any further, as the Comox Valley has just about every activity to offer the novice through to the expert. With recreation centres, school gyms, playing fields, water ways (ocean, rivers, and lakes), a ski resort, 7 golf courses, tennis courts, biking trails, walkways, two swimming pools (one indoors/one outdoors), an aquatic centre, and a skating arena you will no doubt find something of interest. For the outdoor person there are sports such as golf, football, soccer, rugby, lawn bowling, and little league ball. If adventure is your game, then you might try skiing, rock climbing, kayaking, or trail bike riding. An indoor person can take advantage of basketball, squash, bowling, swimming, and volleyball.
This is only a sample of the many recreational and sports activities available. For more detail contact the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce/Visitor Info Centre at 1-888-357-4471.

Recreation Centres

Courtenay Recreation - Lewis Centre
489 Old Island Highway, Courtenay, BC V9N 3P5
Ph: (250) 338-5371 Fax: (250) 338-8600
www.city.courtenay.bc.ca -facilities include squash courts, weight room, outdoor climbing wall, 2 gymnasiums, meeting rooms

Cumberland Recreation Institute
2665 Dunsmuir Avenue, Cumberland, BC V0R 1S0
Ph: (250) 336-2231
http://cumberland.ihostez.com - facilities include weight room, indoor climbing wall, gymnasium

Black Creek Community Association
2001 Black Creek Road, Black Creek, BC V9J 1G5
Ph: (250) 337-5190 Fax : (250) 337-5192

Comox Recreation Department
1855 Noel Avenue, Comox, BC V9M 2H4
Ph: (250) 339-2255
Fax: (250) 339-0814
http://www.comoxrecreation.com - facilities include gymnasium, squash courts, outdoor tennis courts, meeting rooms - facilities include tennis courts, basketball/hockey court, community hall, softball diamond, children's playground

Comox Valley Sports Centre
1001 Vanier Drive, Courtenay, BC V9N 5N5
Ph: (250) 334-9622Fax: (250) 334-1042
www.rdcs.bc.ca - facilities include 25 metre pool, fitness area, whirlpool, sauna, meeting rooms

Comox Valley Aquatic Centre
377 Lerwick, Courtenay, BC V9N 9G4#(250) 334-2527Fax : (250) 334-2587
www.rdcs.bc.ca - facilities include 2 water slides, 25 metre pool, fitness studio, steam room, whirlpool, meeting rooms

Seniors

The Comox Valley boasts a growing seniors population and to accommodate this growth there are many services that cater to their needs. The Valley hosts several centres where seniors can meet and take advantage of social, cultural, recreational and travel activities.
Seniors housing, may it be independent, semi-dependent, or fully dependent, is widely available throughout the area. A sample of special services for seniors includes HandiDart, Lifeline, ElderCollege, Red Cross Loan Cupboard, and therapeutic gardening. For a listing of seniors services contact the Comox Valley Visitor Info Centre.

Seniors Care/Housing

Abbeyfield House
994 8th St.
Courtenay BC
Ph: 338-6311
- affordable supportive housing for seniors (not a nursing home)

Cummings Home
1926 Cummings Rd.
Courtenay BC
Ph: 897-0075
- residential private professional care

Casa Loma Retirement Living
(Comox Valley Seniors Care)
4646 Headquarters Rd
Courtenay BC
Ph: 897-1033
- semi-independent living

Cumberland Lodge
2696 Windermere Ave.
Cumberland BC
Ph: 336-8531
- intermediate care

Cumberland Seniors Citizens Housing Society
16-2594 Penrith Ave.
Cumberland BC
Ph: 336-8288
- low cost housing for seniors (independent living)

Glacier View Lodge
2450 Back Road
Comox BC
Ph: 338-1451
- long-term care facility also offering respite placements, adult day-care and night care

Kiwanis Village
635 Pidcock Ave.
Courtenay BC
Ph: 338-8651
- low cost housing for seniors (independent living)

Laurel Lodge
280 2nd St.
Courtenay BC
Ph: 334-3083
- intermediate care

Stevenson Place
1683 Balmoral Ave.
Comox BC
Ph: 339-7012
- care-a-minimum

Seaview Village Seniors Housing
5648 3rd St. W (RR1, S41, C32)
Union Bay BC
Ph: 335-2775

St. Josephs General Hospital
2137 Comox Ave.
Comox BC
Ph: 339-2242
- extended care

Seniors Centres/Clubs

Comox Senior's Centre/d'Esterre House
1801 Beaufort Avenue
Comox, BC V9M 1R9
Ph: (250) 339-5133

Evergreen Senior's Club
Florence Filberg Centre
411 Anderton Avenue
Courtenay, BC V9N 6G6
Ph: (250) 338-1000

Communications

Newspapers

Comox Valley Echo
407D - 5th Street, Courtenay, BC V9N 7P1
Ph: (250) 334-4722 Fax: (250) 334-3172
Tuesday & Friday Publication
Circulation: 21,820

Comox Valley Record
765 McPhee Avenue, Courtenay, BC V9N 7P1
Ph: (250) 338-5811Fax: (250) 338-5568
Wednesday & Friday Publication
Circulation: Over 20,000
www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

Totem Times
19 Wing Comox (CFB Comox), Lazo, BC V0R 2K0
Ph: (250) 339-9982 Fax: (250) 339-5209
Bi-Weekly (Thursday) Publication
Circulation: 2,000

Magazines

InFocus Magazine
2384 - C Rosewall Crescent
Courtenay, BC V9N 8R9
Ph: (250) 338-4130
Fax: (250) 338-4131
Monthly Publication

The Island Word
9022 Regent Road, Black Creek BC V9J 1A1
Ph: (250) 337-8204
Email: suedan@mars.ark.com
News, views, arts & culture

Cable

Shaw Community Cable 10
1591 McPhee Avenue
Courtenay, BC V9N 3A6
Ph: (250) 334-0888
Fax: (250) 334-3640

Radio

98.9 Jet FM / Coast Radio
1625A McPhee Avenue
Courtenay, BC V9N 3A6
Ph: (250) 334-2421, Fax: (250) 334-1977
www.coastradio.com

Central Island Broadcasting
97.3 FM The Eagle (CKLR)
801B 29th Street, Courtenay BC
Ph: (250) 703-2200, Fax: (250) 703-9611
www.eaglefm.net

Internet Access Providers

Island Internet Inc.
450G 8th St.
Courtenay BC
Ph: 334-1530
www.island.net

Shaw Internet
1591 McPhee Ave.
Courtenay BC
Ph: 334-0888
www.shaw.ca

Telus Internet Services
Ph: 310-4638
www.mytelus.com

Uniserve.com
306-576 England Ave.
Courtenay BC
Ph: 334-3457
www.uniserve.com

Real Estate

Comox Valley Real Estate Offices & Services

Royal LePage in the Comox Valley
750 Comox Road, Courtenay, BC V9N 3P6
Phone: (250) 334-2124 Fax : (250) 334-1901
Website : www.royallepagecomoxvalley.com
Email: royallepagecv@shaw.ca
**there are also offices located in Cumberland, Comox Airport, and the Comox Centre Mall

Coast Realty Group (Comox Valley) Ltd.
625 England Ave, Courtenay, BC V9N 1N5
Phone: (250) 897-3999 Fax : (250) 897-3933
E-mail : coastcv@island.net
Website : www.coastrealty.com

ReMax Ocean Pacific Realty
282 Anderton Road, Comox, BC V9M 1Y2
#(250) 339-2021/339-5529 (fax)
Email: remax@oceanpacificrealty.com
Website: www.oceanpacificrealty.com

ReMax Ocean Pacific Realty
2230 Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay BC
Phone: (250) 334-9900
Email: remaxct@oceanpacificrealty.com
Website: www.oceanpacificrealty.com

BC Island Homes
"For sale by owner marketing services"
Phone: (250) 338-6878
www.bcislandhomes.com

South Country Mobile Home Sales
3663 S. Island Highway, Courtenay, BC V9N 2L8
Phone: (250) 334-0900

Vancouver Island Real Estate Board
6374 Metral, Nanaimo BC
Phone: (250) 390-4212
www.vireb.com

Magic Island Realty Ltd.
3860 Shingle Spit, Hornby Island, BC V0R 1Z0
Phone: (250) 335-0423

Property Management Companies

Penny Lane Property Management Ltd.
105-501 4th Street, Courtenay, BC V9N 1H3
Phone: (250) 897-1611

Coast Country Properties
114-750 Comox Rd, Courtenay BC V9N 3P6
Phone: (250) 897-1300

Robert H. Ash & Associates
Phone: (250) 703-2264, 338-0267, 339-1222

Aegis Realty Ltd.
505 Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay
Phone: (250) 338-9570

Meicor Realty Management Services
325 Johnston Street, Courtenay
Phone: (250) 338-9979

Castlegate Property Management
301 Puntledge Road, Courtenay BC
Phone: (250) 338-2472

Coast Pacific Property Services Ltd.
576 England Ave, Courtenay, BC V9N 2N3
Phone: (250) 338-6900 Fax : (250) 338-6959

Transportation

By Air

The Comox Valley is serviced by a civilian air terminal located at CFB Comox. The airport code is YQQ. It is open 365 days a years, 24 hours a day. Fuel, crash and fire rescuers are available for both military and commercial aircraft. The runway being 10,000 feet in length, has been approved by the Department of National Defence, for the landing of 747 commercial aircraft. This has opened a large window of opportunity for tourism in the Comox Valley.

There are 7 daily flights to the Vancouver International Airport's South Terminal via Pacific Coastal. WestJet provides direct daily service between Calgary and Comox.

Central Mountain Air
1-888-865-8585
www.flycma

Pacific Coastal
1-800-663-2872
www.pacific-coastal.com

WestJet
1-877-952-4638
www.westjet.com

Comox Valley Airport
1250 Knight Road, PO Box 118
Comox BC V9M 4H2
www.comoxairport.com

Courtenay Airpark Association
The Courtenay Airpark consists of a 0.6 km (1800') long paved strip suitable for all types of light aircraft. Located next to the river the Airpark can accommodate float aircraft. The park is equipped with visitor dock space, a launch ramp, and beaching gear. There is also fuel, hangers, and service maintenance for both float and wheeled aircraft. There are no landing fees, but a $5 overnight parking fee is charged. Washrooms and telephone are available in the pilot's lounge and a snack bar is located just outside the main gate.
#1 - 110 - 20th Street, Box 3566
Courtenay, BC V9N 2G2
Ph: (250) 334-8545

By Land - Highways

Centrally located on the east coast of Vancouver Island, the Comox Valley is easily accessible from the north or south via Highway 19 (Inland Island Highway) or Highway 19A (the Oceanside Route). Highway 19 runs from Nanaimo to Port Hardy with 4 exits for the Comox Valley area. Take Exit #117 to access the city centres of Comox, Courtenay, and Cumberland. Highway 19A runs from Parksville to Campbell River, travelling through the scenic communities of Parksville, Qualicum Beach, Deep Bay, Fanny Bay, Union Bay and Royston (to the south of Courtenay) and Merville and Black Creek/Saratoga Beach (to the north of Courtenay).

By Land - Buses

Daily bus service offers the traveller quick and affordable transportation throughout the Island (from Victoria to Port Hardy and across to Tofino/Ucluelet) with connections to the Lower Mainland (Vancouver). The Comox Valley Transit System provides service within the Comox Valley servicing the municipalities of Courtenay, Comox, and Cumberland as well as the BC Ferries terminals at Comox (to Powell River) and Buckley Bay (to Denman Island) and the Comox Airport. Additionally, there are HandiDart buses serving the disabled in the area.

Comox Valley (BC) Transit
Box 2270, Courtenay, BC V9N 5N5
Ph: (250) 339-5453 (CV Transit 24 hour bus info)
www.rdcs.bc.ca/Transit/index.html

Island Coach Lines (Vancouver Island)
#9 - 2663 Kilpatrick Avenue, Courtenay, BC V9N 8J9
Ph: (250) 334-2475 / 1-800-318-0818
www.victoriatours.com

HandiDart
Ph: (250) 339-5442

Greyhound Bus Lines (Nanaimo to Vancouver)
Ph: 1-800-667-0882
www.whistlerbus.com/schedules

Malaspina Coach Lines LTD. (between Powell River and Vancouver)
Ph : (604) 485-5030 Toll Free : 1-877-227-8BUS
Fax : (604) 485-2566
www.prwebs.com/town/bus.htm

By Land - Rail

Courtenay is the northern terminus of the E & N Railway (Via Rail) with daily roundtrips between Victoria and Courtenay. At time of printing, the train departs Victoria, Monday to Saturday, at 8:15am arriving in Courtenay at 12:50pm, departing Courtenay at 1:30pm and arriving back in Victoria at 6:00pm. On Sunday, the train departs Victoria at 12:00pm, arriving in Courtenay at 4:25, departing from Courtenay at 5:15pm and arriving back in Victoria at 9:40pm. Reservations can be made by phone or online with Via Rail, or through most travel agents (a ticketing fee may apply).

E & N Railway (Via Rail)
1-888-842-7245
Website: www.viarail.ca

By Land - Freight

Two Valley based freight companies offer services to Island points as well as the mainland.

Comox Valley Distribution
777 - 29th Street, Courtenay, BC V9N 7Y3
Ph: (250) 338-9244

Triple D Freightways
890 - 5th Street, Courtenay, BC V9N 1K9
Ph: (250) 338-8616

Most Major freight companies are also well represented in the Valley.

By Sea -Vancouver Island to/from Mainland BC via BC Ferries

There is frequent ferry service to the mainland on BC Ferries from both Nanaimo (at Departure Bay and Duke Point) and Victoria (Swartz Bay). For an alternate highway route to Vancouver, take the ferry from Little River (Comox) to Powell River and travel the Sunshine Coast route via Highway #101 and BC Ferries. From Port Hardy (3.5 hours north of the Comox Valley), take BC Ferries to Prince Rupert in Northern BC and seasonally to Bella Coola in the Central Coast region of BC.

BC Ferries
Ph: 1-888-223-3779 (Reservations and Information)
Website: www.bcferries.com

By Sea - Vancouver Island to/from Washington State

Victoria to Port Angeles via MV Coho
Ph: (250) 386-2202
Fax. (250) 386-2207
Website: www.northolympic.com/coho

Victoria to/from Seattle via The Victoria Clipper (passenger only)
Ph: (250) 382-8100 or
Ph: 1-800-888-2535
Website: www.victoriaclipper.com

Washington State Ferries (from Sidney (Victoria) to/from Anacortes (Washington)
Ph: (250) 381-1551 or (250) 656-1531
Website: www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/

By Sea - Boat

Comox Harbour Authority
The Comox Harbour and the Slough in downtown Courtenay provide moorage for visitors. If you are in need of using those facilities, call the Comox Valley Harbour Authority at (250) 339-6041 or go visit them online at www.comoxfishermanswharf.com.

Education

Public Schools (District #71 Board Office)
Ph: (250) 334-5500 Fax: (250) 334-4472
http://sd71.bc.ca
Within the boundaries of School District #71, there are 18 elementary schools, 5 middle schools and 3 secondary schools, which serve a combined population of approx. 9,300. There are also a wide range of educational curricula and extra-curricular activities including four 'French Immersion' programs, a correspondence school, and two alternative schools.

Elementary

Airport Elementary
1475 Salmonberry, Comox
339-3732

Arden Elementary
3040 Lake Trail Rd., Courtenay
334-3191

Brooklyn Elementary
1475 Noel Ave., Comox
339-4866

Comox Elementary
2085 Wallace Ave., Comox
339-4881

Courtenay Elementary
1540 McPhee Ave., Courtenay
338-5396

Cumberland Elementary
2644 Ulverston Ave., Cumberland
336-8521

Denman Island Elementary
1100 Northwest Rd., Denman Island
335-2324

Glacier View Elementary
241 Beecher Pl., Courtenay
338-1425

Hornby Island Elementary
2100 Sollans Rd., Hornby Island
335-2125

Huband Park Elementary
5120 Mottishaw Rd., Courtenay
338-6596

Miracle Beach Elementary
8763 Paulsen, Black Creek
334-4628

Ecole Puntledge Park Elementary
401 Willemar Ave., Courtenay
334-4495

Ecole Robb Road Elementary
1909 Robb Rd., Comox
339-6864

Royston Elementary
3830 Warren, Royston
334-2161

Union Bay Elementary
5539 S. Island Highway, Union Bay
335-2821

Valley View Elementary
2300 Valley View Rd., Courtenay
897-0343

Village Park Elementary
566 Linshart, Comox
339-4854

Middle (Grades 7-9)

Aspen Park Middle
2250 Bolt Ave., Comox
890-0944

Cape Lazo Middle
1290 Guthrie Rd., Comox
339-2232

Courtenay Middle
2345 Mission Rd., Courtenay
334-4089

Cumberland Junior
2674 Windermere Ave., Cumberland
336-8511

Lake Trail Middle
805 Willemar Rd., Courtenay
334-3168

Secondary (Grades 10-12)

G.P. Vanier Secondary
4830 Headquarters Rd., Courtenay
338-9262

Highland Secondary
750 Pritchard Rd., Comox
339-5525

Mark R. Isfeld Secondary
1551 Lerwick Rd., Courtenay
334-2428

Post Secondary Education

North Island College - - www.nic.bc.ca
2300 Ryan Road, Courtenay
334-5000
North Island College offers approximately 600 courses, and approximately 40 College programs, which fall into three main categories: Academic (University transfer), Developmental & Applied Sciences, and Trades & Technology. The College also offers approximately 200 non-credit courses to the community ranging from water color painting to modular electronics. North Island College has 8 learning centres and three campuses from Bella Coola on BC's central coast to Ucluelet on Vancouver Island's west coast, with its administrative centre on the beautiful 64 acre Courtenay campus. A child care facility is now available for newborns up to age five, to serve the daycare needs of Students, Faculty, Staff and the community.

Approximately 5300 students registered for courses at the Comox Valley Campus during the 2002/03 school year. This number includes over 3500 students enrolled in credit courses and over 1700 students enrolled in the Continuing Studies program. Other programs include Cooperative Education, ElderCollege, International Education, and Training Solutions.

North Island College employs approximately 154 staff in this region, which includes faculty, support staff, and administration. Some of the faculty travels between this campus and the Campbell River campus. Its administrators travel throughout the College region.

Excel Career College - www.excelcareercollege.com
203B-1995 Cliffe Ave., Courtenay
334-2452
Excel Career College is a private post-secondary college that has been providing education to the community since 1989. Excel is registered and accredited with the Private Post-Secondary Education Commission of BC, and in compliance with the Private Post-Secondary Education Act. Excel is affiliated with the National Association of Career Colleges, the BC Career Colleges Association and a member of the Better Business Bureau. Excel Career College is designated by the BC Student Assistance Program. Excel offers full time college programs, corporate training, computer and business courses and private instruction.

Sprott-Shaw Community College - www.sprottshaw.com
9-468-29th St., Courtenay
897-0097
Sprott-Shaw provides small class sizes, qualified instructors, hand-on training and a friendly appropriate learning environment for adults of all ages. Curriculum includes office, healthcare, tourism, hospitality, business, administrative and international studies.

Insurance

Automobile Licensing and Insurance
Basic Autoplan is compulsory insurance and is required before a motor vehicle can be operated on a BC Highway. Autoplan is administered by the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) which is a self-supporting Crown corporation. Insurance is purchased through Autoplan agents, and other optional insurance can be purchased from private brokers. New residents to BC who bring a motor vehicle into the province must purchase license plates and insurance within 30 days of the date of entry; commercial vehicles must be registered immediately. The amount you pay for your Autoplan insurance is directly related to your claim record. If relocating to BC from another province or area, documentation will be required from your insurance company indicating the period of time you have been claim free in order to receive the appropriate claims free discount.

Most used vehicles being registered in BC for the first time must pass a mechanical safety inspection at a designated BC inspection facility before they can be registered, licensed and insured. A list of inspection facilities may be obtained from the Government Agent's office or from any Autoplan broker. Once your vehicle has passed the inspection, take your vehicle with a copy of the inspection report and your current registration to an Autoplan broker to register and insure your vehicle in BC.

A valid driver's license issued from any other jurisdiction may be used for a period of three months from date of entry into BC.

New residents coming into the province on a temporary basis (such as members of the Armed Forces on assignment, out-of-province students, and tourists bringing vehicles into BC for a period of more that six months) must contact the Motor Vehicle Branch/Government Agent within 30 days of entry to determine BC requirements.

For complete details go to www.icbc.com (insurance) and www.governmentagents.gov.bc.ca (licensing).

Medical Insurance

The Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC is administered by the Ministry of Health and provides basic medical coverage to permanent residents of BC. Canadian citizens and landed immigrants who are permanent residents of BC are eligible for coverage. Temporary residents from outside Canada should contact a private insurance company.

New residents have a statutory waiting period that is the remainder of the month of arrival plus two additional months from date of applying for MSP. If one member of the family arrives first, the waiting period begins when the rest of the family arrives. For specific information on benefits and fees, contact Medical Services Plan of BC at 1-800-465-4911 or go to www.healthservices.gov.bc.ca

Home Insurance
Home insurance is private and can be purchased from most insurance agencies in the Comox Valley.

Utilities

BC Hydro
Ph: 1-800-224-9376 (Billing Inquiries, Moves)
Website : www.bchydro.com
Basic/Minimum charge: $7.42 for a 2 month period, plus $0.0619 per kWh.

Telus
Ph: 310-2255 (for residential service inquiries within Alberta and BC)
Ph: 1-888-811-2323 (BC customers calling from outside BC)
www.telus.com
(Need a phone book? - drop into the Visitor Info Centre and pick up a copy)

Terasen Gas
Ph: 1-800-667-6064 (Billing & Moving Notices)
www.terasengas.com
2577 Mission Road, Courtenay
(250) 338-9997 (Customer Sales & Service)
Rate effective October 1, 2004 - Basic monthly charge $10.50, Commodity charge per GJ $13.220

Canada Post Corporation

www.canadapost.com

Courtenay Station Main
333 Hunt Place, Courtenay
334-4341

Comox Postal Station A
1812 Comox Ave., Comox
339-4411

Cumberland Postal Station
2756 Dunsmuir Ave., Cumberland
336-2928

(These are the main postal stations in the Comox Valley. There are many more postal outlets providing a range of services throughout the area.

101 Things To Do (at least!)

Bird Watching
Bird sanctuaries and viewing areas along the waterways have made bird watching a very popular activity in the Comox Valley. The largest population of Trumpeter Swans in North America makes the Valley their home during the winter. Depending on the season, weather, human activities, and the habits of the birds themselves, the bird population will vary from day to day. Two other species that warrant mention are the Bald Eagles and the Brant. More information can be obtained by purchasing a copy of Nature Viewing Sites from the CV Chamber of Commerce or the CV Naturalist Society ((250) 338-6055). Go to http://www.comoxvalleynaturalist.bc.ca for information on the Naturalist Society.

Comox Valley Farmer's Market
A visit to the Comox Valley Farmers Market is a good way to visit a variety of vendors in one location. Items include fresh produce, flowers and plants, baking, seafood, poultry and eggs, and dairy (many of these are from organic farms making their home in the Comox Valley). Grab a cappuccino, sit back, relax and listen to live local music too. The Farmer's Market is held on Saturday mornings from Easter to Thanksgiving at the Exhibition Fairgrounds in Courtenay and from Thanksgiving to Christmas indoors at the Native Sons Hall in Courtenay and on Wednesdays from June to September in Downtown Courtenay. All markets run from 9am to 12pm. Come for the freshness, stay for the fun! Check out http://ca.geocities.com/cvfma. (There are also many farms open to the public throughout the year. The Comox Valley Grower's Guide contains listings and information on over 50 farms in the area. This helpful guide is available from the Visitor Info Centre or at the Farmer's Market.)

Fishing
Salt and fresh water fishing is abundant. Chinook and Coho Salmon are commonly found in the Georgia Strait region adjacent to the Valley, with ling-cod, greenling rock cod, and snapper found in the shallow waters. Check with the Department of Fisheries for limits (250) 339-2031.

Golfing
A golf haven awaits the beginner or expert golfer with seven courses (four 18-hole and three 9-hole) situated throughout the Valley. The Valley's newest golf course is Crown Isle, which has been ranked as one of Canada's top courses.

Hiking/Walking
The Comox Valley offers trails suitable for all interests and fitness levels. From paved pathways along the river/estuary and roadways through heritage neighbourhoods to woodchip trails in beautiful forested regional parks (www.rdcs.bc.ca/parks) to day and overnight hikes through Strathcona Provincial Park (www.bcparks.ca), there is something for everyone.

Kayaking
Get close to marine birds and wildlife with a paddle in the Courtenay estuary, or explore the historic Royston Wrecks and the unique ecosystems of Tree Island. The calm waters of Baynes Sound are perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed paddle, while faster moving rivers offer a more challenging excursion for experience paddlers.

Mountain Biking
The Comox Valley offers 5 distinct areas of easy to challenging trails for all levels of riders, including year-round trails near Comox Lake and along the Puntledge River (one of the largest mountain bike trail systems on Vancouver Island), in and around Cumberland, and for downhill enthusiasts, Mount Washington offers a variety of trails for beginner, intermediate and advanced riders in the summer season.

Puntledge Fish Hatchery
Two hatchery sites rearing Chum, Chinook, Coho, and Steelhead offer self-guided tour with an ever changing program. Open 8am - 4pm, year round.
38 Powerhouse Road, Courtenay, BC V9N 5N3 Phone: (250) 703-0907

Skiing
Mt. Washington, the largest ski area on Vancouver Island, offers superb downhill skiing for the novice to expert skier, as well as cross-country skiing, snow-boarding, snowtubing, snowshoeing, luging, and a growing alpine village. There is an abundance of condominium style accommodations to suit all your needs. Dining facilities, rentals, ski school, sports shop and locker areas available in both the Alpine Lodge and Raven (Nordic) Lodge.
For more information, contact Mount Washington Alpine Resort.
PO Box 3069, Courtenay, BC V9N 5N3
Ph: (250) 338-1386, Toll Free: 1-888-231-1499, Fax (250) 338-7295
Recorded snow reports (250) 338-1515
Website: www.mountwashington.ca

Museums and Historic Sites

Courtenay & District Museum & Paleontology Centre
This museum includes the Comox Valley Elasmosaur and other fossil material, Native history, exploration, agriculture, logging, and pioneer life. Inquire about going on a guided fossil digging tour.
Open daily 10am - 4:30pm (May - August):
Tuesday to Saturday 10am - 4:30pm (September - April)
207 4th Street, Courtenay, BC
Phone: (250) 334-0686 www.courtenaymuseum.ca

Cumberland Museum
Located in a former coal mining community, this museum boasts a walk-through coal mine and contains displays of Chinese culture and Japanese art. Open 9am - 5pm daily (May - August); 9am - 5pm Monday - Saturday (Winter).
2680 Dunsmuir Avenue, Cumberland, BC
Phone: (250) 336-2445 Fax: (250) 336-2411

Comox Air Force Museum
Exhibits reflect the heritage, customs, and traditions of Canada's Air Force by focusing on the history of 19 Wing Comox (CFB Comox). Open 10am - 4pm daily.
19 Wing Comox (CFB Comox), Lazo, BC V0R 2K0 Ph: (250) 339-8162
Website: www.comoxairforcemuseum.ca

Comox Archives & Museum
Specializing in marine and nautical history dating back to the days of Captain George Vancouver as he surveyed the area with the Royal Navy. Open 1pm to 4pm, Thursday through Saturday
1729 Comox Avenue, Comox
Phone: (250) 339-2885 Website: www.island.net/~cams

Filberg Heritage Lodge & Park
The FILBERG Lodge, built in 1929, is located on nine acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, situated on the waterfront near the end of Comox Avenue in Comox. Park grounds are open from dawn to dusk year round. The Lodge is Open daily through the summer (June to Labour Day) from 11am to 5pm; Weekends only from Easter to June 1st and Labour Day to Thanksgiving. The Lodge and Park is home to the annual Filberg Festival (www.filbergfestival.com), one of the largest arts and crafts festivals on Vancouver Island, each BC Day long weekend. 61 Filberg Road, Comox, BC
Phone: (250) 339-2715 Website: www.filberg.com

Arts & Culture
The central island is well known for its artistic community, boasting the highest per-capita concentration of artists in Canada. Over 550 artists and crafts-people make their home in the Valley. There are 3 community art galleries (The Comox Valley Art Gallery, Comox Valley Community Arts Council, Pearl Ellis Gallery of Fine Art) plus a large number of private galleries/studios open to the public. The performing arts are alive and well in the Comox Valley with 1 major performing arts centre (The Sid Williams Theatre) plus a number of smaller venues that hold smaller more intimate events/concerts. Whether you are looking for native crafts, pottery, stained glass, fine arts or woven products; whether your musical interests are jazz, country, rock or bluegrass; and whether your preference for performing arts is dance, live theatre, or perhaps an opera, you'll find it all here.

A variety of dance studios and choral groups also make their home in the Comox Valley. With summertime comes the Comox Valley Youth Music Centre (www.island.net/~cymc) - students and faculty come from all parts of the province to participate in this month long music camp. Student and faculty concerts in a variety of musical mediums including jazz, classical, choral and musical theatre are enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Events and Festivals
The following is a partial list of the many events that take place every year. For more details on these and other events throughout the year, check out www.comoxvalleychamber.com, and go to Community Events or contact the Comox Valley Visitor Info Centre.
Snow to Surf Relay Race - last Sunday in April
Cumberland Empire Days - Victoria Day long weekend
North Island Hot Jazz Festival - first weekend in June
Canada Day Festivities - July 1st
Vancouver Island Music Fest - first or second weekend in July
Comox Valley Youth Music Centre - month of July
Comox Air Show - July or August (in odd-numbered years)
Filberg Festival - BC holiday long weekend (beginning of August/end of July)
Comox Valley Exhibition/Fall Fair - last weekend of August

For more information or a listing of other attractions and events occurring throughout the year, contact the Comox Valley Visitor Info Centre.
2040 Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay, BC V9N 2L3
Ph: (250) 334-3234  Fax: (250) 334-4908
Toll free : 1-888-357-4471
Website: www.comoxvalleychamber.com

Community Contact Numbers

City of Courtenay
830 Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay, BC V9N 2J7
Ph: (250) 334-4441 Fax: (250) 334-4241
www.city.courtenay.bc.ca

Town of Comox
1809 Beaufort Avenue, Comox, BC V9M 1R9
Ph: (250) 339-2202 Fax: (250) 339-7110
www.town.comox.bc.ca

Regional District of Comox-Strathcona
600 Comox Road Courtenay, BC V9N 3P6
Ph: (250) 334-6000 Fax: (250) 334-4358
www.rdcs.bc.ca

Village of Cumberland
Box 340, 2673 Dunsmuir Avenue, Cumberland BC V0R 1S0
Ph: (250) 336-2291 Fax: (250) 336-2321
http://cumberland.ihostez.com/

Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce/Visitor Info Centre
2040 Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay BC V9N 2L3
Ph: (250) 334-3234 Fax: (250) 334-4908
Website: www.comoxvalleychamber.com

Cumberland Chamber of Commerce
2755 Dunsmuir Avenue, Cumberland, BC V0R 1S0
Ph: (250) 336-8313 Fax: (250) 336-2455
Website: www.cumberlandbc.org

Comox Valley Tourism Association
2435 Mansfield Drive, Courtenay BC V9N 2M2
Ph: (250) 334-6199
www.comox-valley-tourism.ca

Comox Valley Economic Development Society
102-2435 Mansfield Drive, Courtenay BC V9N 2M2
Ph: (250) 334-2427 Fax: (250) 334-2414
www.investcomoxvalley.com

Human Resources & Skills Development Canada
130 19th Street, Courtenay BC V9N 8S1
Ph: (250) 334-3151
www.hrsdc.gc.ca

BC Government Agent
2500 Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay, BC V9N 1G9
Ph: (250) 897-7500, Fax: (250) 338-0015
www.governmentagents.gov.bc.ca

Comox Valleylinks/Volunteer Investment Program
201A 2435 Mansfield Drive, Courtenay BC
Ph: (250) 334-8063
www.valleylinks.net / www.volunteer.iscn.ca

Community Futures Development Corporation
201M-2435 Mansfield Drive, Courtenay BC
Ph: (250) 334-2427
www.communityfutures-strathcona.com

MP (Federal Gov't)

John Duncan
#3 - 1330 Elm Street, Campbell River, BC V9W 3A6
Ph: (250) 287-4902 Fax: (250) 287-4904
1 800 667-8404

MLA (Provincial Gov't)

Stan Hagen
Constituency Office
437 5th Street, Courtenay BC V9N 1J7
Ph: (250) 703-2422 Fax: (250) 703-2425

Acknowledgments

The Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce has compiled the material gathered herein. Where practical we have made note in the text as to sources used. We wish to thank all those agencies and groups who shared their resources with us.

19 Wing Comox (CFB Comox)
BC Statistics
City of Courtenay
Comox Valley Economic Development Society
Comox Valley Tourism
Excel Career College
InFocus Design
North Island College
Regional District of Comox-Strathcona
Statistics Canada
Town of Comox
Village of Cumberland

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A printed version of this Community Information may be obtained at the Chamber office (for a small fee), or you may download a copy here .

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