BC Ferries Enhancing Future Of Ferry System Engagement

BC Ferries is launching a process to design a new engagement model that better addresses what it calls the evolving needs of growing coastal communities, reflecting the importance of more effectively incorporating digital engagement.

“A lot has changed in the last 30 plus years since the Ferry Advisory Committee (FAC) model was first created, and it’s time for us to have a look at our broader engagement process to make sure that it’s accessible, inclusive, and representative of a broad range of input,” says Morningstar Pinto, Executive Director of External Engagement.

BC Ferries will collaborate with FACs, community residents, local governments and MLAs, First Nations, and other interested and impacted groups to create a more inclusive and responsive engagement model, which will replace the FACs and be in place starting in May 2025.

In response to feedback from the public, local governments and First Nations—as well as customer survey results where over 80% of respondents indicated a preference for more digital engagement options—BC Ferries aims to implement new engagement structures and processes to reach and hear from a broader audience.

Digital tools, including real-time surveys, interactive feedback portals, and virtual forums, will enable wider participation from anywhere, at any time.
It’s expected the new model will both maintain in-person outreach and include digital-first opportunities to strengthen the inclusivity, depth and authenticity of the engagement work. In the meantime, project-specific engagements will continue as normal.

Starting early in the new year, BC Ferries says it will ensure accessible opportunities to actively shape the future of ferry engagement, including through community forums, terminal and on-board pop-ups, interest holder meetings, and attendance at local events.

For more information, visit BC Ferries.