Press Release - Lillooet Ave West Streetscape Project

PRESS RELEASE – Harrison Hot Springs unveils Lillooet Avenue West streetscape and recognizes outgoing Council

for Immediate Release – October 28, 2026

HARRISON HOT SPRINGS, B.C. – The Village of Harrison Hot Springs is celebrating the completion of the Lillooet Avenue West Streetscape Enhancements Project, transforming an aging section of the Village core into a more welcoming, accessible and vibrant space for residents and visitors.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony marks the official unveiling of the completed streetscape and provides an opportunity to recognize the contributions of the outgoing 2022–2026 Council as the Village prepares to welcome its newly elected Council on November 2, 2026.

The project replaced aging sidewalk and roadway infrastructure with improvements designed to support accessibility, pedestrian safety and a more enjoyable experience in the Village core.
The completed streetscape includes:

• Improved sidewalks and pedestrian crossings;
• Updated roadway infrastructure;
• New landscaping and climate-resilient plantings;
• Bench seating and gathering areas;
• A ground mural introducing public art to the space; and
• A community bulletin board for sharing local events and engagement opportunities.

“This project is about more than replacing sidewalks and improving infrastructure,” said Mayor Fred Talen. “It is about creating a place where people want to slow down, sit for a while, explore our community and enjoy the character of Harrison Hot Springs. Lillooet Avenue West is an important part of our Village core, and this new streetscape is a wonderful addition to the community.”

From plan to reality
Planning began in 2024, following arborist assessments that identified significant health and safety concerns with four mature oak trees along Lillooet Avenue West. Council directed staff to develop a streetscape plan, with preliminary design work followed by detailed design in 2025. Construction began in 2026, with the goal of completing the road work ahead of the summer tourism season. Wood from the oak trees was repurposed and turned into the three oak benches lining the new streetscape.

The project forms part of the Village’s ongoing streetscape enhancements, building on past investments such as the Esplanade Avenue Improvement Project. Both projects were supported through the Resort Municipality Initiative (RMI), which helps resort communities invest in tourism-related infrastructure and amenities.

The project was awarded to Element Excavating Ltd., with an approved budget of $850,000 funded through the Resort Municipality Initiative, BC Hydro ReGreening Grant, Local Government Climate Action Program, ICBC Road Safety Improvement Program and Community Works Fund.

Recognizing a term of community service
As the current Council term concludes, the ribbon cutting also offers an opportunity to reflect on the work accomplished during the past four years. Community improvements advanced during the term include enhancements at Spring Park, the accessible beachfront playground and shade structures, improvements to boat launch facilities, and the opening of the Village Health Centre.
For one outgoing Councillor, Leo Facio, the transition marks the end of more than 30 years in local elected office—a significant milestone representing decades of public service and involvement in the community.

“Municipal progress is built over time, through the work of many people and the decisions made along the way,” said Mayor Talen. “I want to thank my fellow Council members, Allan Jackson, Leo Facio, Mark Schweinbenz, and Michie Vidal for their time, commitment and service to Harrison Hot Springs.”

As one Council term ends and another begins, the Village recognizes the contributions of elected officials, staff, residents, businesses, volunteers and community partners in shaping Harrison Hot Springs.

The incoming Council will be sworn in at its inaugural meeting on Monday, November 2, 2026.

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View the Press Release here.