Esquimalt: a rich History and Bright Future

Esquimalt is a community located in the Greater Victoria area with a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Before colonialism, the area was home to the Lekwungen and Esquimalt Nations who lived off the land, fishing in the nearby waters and hunting. They also had trade relationships with other First Nations communities up and down the coast.

The first European explorer to visit the area was Captain Quadra, a Spanish naval officer, who arrived in 1775. By1850, the Royal Navy established a base in Esquimalt Harbour to protect British interests in the Pacific Northwest. The naval base became an important centre for shipbuilding and repair and it played a significant role in the development of the area and still does today.

By the 1920s, the area had become a popular tourist destination but for the last few decades it remained underdeveloped. The area is now in a high growth phase and several new initiatives have been introduced to make it a more vibrant residential area. Upcoming developments include increased public transit options and the construction of a new community centre which will serve as a hub for local activities. One notable development is the Esquimalt Town Square project, which is a mixed-use development that includes residential units, commercial space, and community facilities. The project is located in the heart of Esquimalt, adjacent to the municipal hall and public library.

Another development is the Westbay Quay project, which is a waterfront development that includes residential units and commercial space.

The Westbay Quay project will include 85 residential units in two buildings, with a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom units. The development will also feature approximately 4,800 square meters of commercial space, including retail, office, and restaurant space. In addition, the project will include a public promenade along the waterfront, with benches, public art, and other amenities.

The project has been designed with sustainability in mind, with features such as rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient building systems, and green roofs.

The WestBay Promenade is a popular pedestrian walkway and park located in Esquimalt. It stretches along the waterfront of the Esquimalt Harbour and offers stunning views of the local harbour and the Olympic Mountains.

The promenade is approximately 1.2 km long and features a paved walkway, benches, picnic tables, and interpretive signs that provide information about the local history and wildlife. There are also several small beaches and coves along the way where visitors can access the water.

The WestBay Promenade is a popular destination for walking, jogging, cycling, and picnicking. It is open year-round and is a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of Vancouver Island.

Finally, there are also several smaller-scale residential developments underway in Esquimalt, including townhouse and apartment projects. Esquimalt can look forward to these brilliant new developments in the now and in the near future!

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