COLWOOD
The City of Colwood has nearly perfected the setting for work-life balance. It hosts a thriving business community amongst a lush landscape well suited for outdoor enthusiasts.
The city has been recognized as a leader in environmental sustainability, notably with its award-winning ‘Solar Colwood’ program that incentivized residents to use solar energy in their homes.
Colwood is quickly attracting more residents, and according to its community plan, the population is estimated to increase by 108% by 2038. This is no surprise with its family-friendly neighbourhoods, amenities, coastline with stunning views of the Salish Sea, and quick proximity to downtown Victoria.
Profile
Population: 16,859
Average age: 40.9
Average full-time employment income: $64,783
Population density per square kilometres: 954.2
Land area in square kilometres: 17.67
Total private dwellings: 6,867
Amenities
Colwood is home to Royal Roads University, which attracts professionals from around the world for its high quality executive, masters, and doctorate level programs. Royal Roads is also the grounds of the historic Hatley Castle.
The city has five elementary schools, two middle schools, and the newly built Royal Bay Secondary School, which was completed in 2015 and has a 350-seat theatre, a rooftop basketball court, and a rubberized track, among other great amenities. The government of BC recently announced another $23 million investment to further expand Royal Bay Secondary to accommodate the rapid growth in students as Colwood’s population continues to rise. Colwood also has a Nature Preschool and Nature Kindergarten where kids learn by spending most of their time in the outdoors.
Many elementary schools in Colwood also have a Strong Start program, which is free for children ages 0 to 5 accompanied by their parents or caregivers, to help kick start learning and motor skills.
More than 500 businesses operate out of Colwood, which provide for a growing workforce and booming economy.
West Shore Parks and Recreation is found in the heart of Colwood, and is filled with a number of family-friendly amenities including the Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre with a pool, skating rink, golf course, and exercise facilities.
For those living in Colwood and commuting downtown for work, the Galloping Goose Trail will take you there in just 50 minutes by bike, which will fly by with the stunning views. The city is also about a 35-minute drive to the Victoria International Airport and Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal.
Fun and Family
Colwood residents have outdoor activities at their fingertips. If you enjoy spending time on the green, there are two golf clubs including Olympic View and Royal Colwood. There’s also a par three course at the Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre.
For those looking for something edgier, there’s ‘Mother Nature’s urban adrenaline rush’ WildPlay Element Parks, which has ziplines, adventure courses, and a 40-foot jump!
For something a little more calming, Colwood is home to the Esquimalt Lagoon Migratory Bird Sanctuary, which is located alongside the historic Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse.
While the Galloping Goose Trail is commonly used for commuting to downtown Victoria, it’s also a stunning trail to leisurely, walk, bike, or horseback ride through. It’s nearly 60 kilometres long and winds along from Victoria through to Sooke.
For those who love boating, the waters off of Colwood are great for salmon and halibut fishing, as well as taking in sights of whales, sea lions, and otters.