Esquimalt has hauled out old photographs from its archives for a nostalgic look at the development of the township’s main street in celebration of Heritage Week.
The theme of this year’s celebration, which runs Feb. 16-22, is Main Street: At the Heart of the Community and pays tribute to the history of main streets and the revitalization of traditional downtowns throughout British Columbia.
Esquimalt Road — the main route between Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt and downtown Victoria — has a long history as a transportation route, a commercial centre and a community gathering place.
“Esquimalt Road has played a vital role in the history of our community,” said Mayor Barb Desjardins.
“With plans underway for the new Esquimalt Village and corridor revitalization, it will be crucial to our future, as well.”
Esquimalt Road has been the site of many events and parades over the years, including a visit by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth and the Centennial 2012 celebration. It is also home to annual events such as Esquimalt Days, Buccaneer Days, and the Celebration of Lights, as well as several military parades, including the Freedom of the Township Parade for CFB Esquimalt in 2012.
During Heritage Week, historic photographs depicting the corridor will be displayed in Esquimalt Road business windows as well as in the municipal hall. A photo gallery will be posted online at esquimalt.ca.
The municipality is inviting residents to submit their photos, old or new, of events and sites on Esquimalt Road.
The corridor has two commercial centres, one established around Head Street and the second near Constance Avenue and Admirals Road. The Admirals Road centre has slowly moved east over the years and now extends to Joffre Street and the Archie Browning Sports Centre.
As part of a pilot beautification and revitalization project for Esquimalt Road, the township is working on a revitalization tax exemption program for businesses on that road.
