Construction of the gas bar continues to progress well and remains largely on schedule. While there have been a few short-term delays related to soil testing, approvals for hydro work, and the discovery of some previously hidden deterioration within the canopy structure, the project team has demonstrated flexibility in adapting work plans and shifting focus to other areas when needed. This approach has helped maintain overall momentum and keep the project moving forward.

Project Highlights

Electrical Room

• Framing of the new electrical room is nearing completion.
• This milestone is critical, as it will allow power to be connected to the temporary office and support the reopening of the fuel pumps for temporary operations.

Petroleum Tanks

• Existing petroleum tanks have been tested and received positive results.
• The assessment confirmed that the tanks remain in good condition and have many years of service life remaining.

Store Foundation and Services

• Work on the store foundation is progressing well.
• Trenching between the store and the generator location is also underway.

Canopy Improvements

• Preparation work for new canopy lighting and soffits identified some minor rot within portions of the structural framing.
  
• Structural specialists were engaged to assess the condition and have confirmed that the affected areas can be repaired in place without significant impact to the overall project.

Schedule and Budget

Overall, the project continues to track closely with the original schedule. Although several critical-path items have required adjustments to the sequencing of work, the project team remains confident that key milestones will be achieved as planned. Preparations to reopen for temporary operations remains a key focus as the project advances.

As with most construction projects, underground civil work carries the greatest potential for unforeseen conditions and associated costs. We are now approaching the completion of this phase of the project. Based on current information, consultants continue to report that the project's contingency budget remains healthy and that there are no significant concerns regarding project costs at this time.

We appreciate our community's patience and support as work continues, and we look forward to providing further updates as the project progresses and to get back to servicing our community as soon as we can.

Gas Bar Closure FAQs

Our Tofino Co-op Gas Bar temporarily closed on May 27th while we complete essential maintenance and major upgrades to the property. After the first phase of renovations, we plan to reopen the fuel pumps along with a small kiosk offering essentials, tobacco and lottery while construction continues on our brand-new convenience store. A reopening date has not yet been confirmed.

Thank you to everyone who has reached out with questions and feedback since we shared the news about the closure. We’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions in one convenient place to ensure everyone has access to consistent and up-to-date information.

Why now?

The reality is that this upgrade has been a work in progress for the past decade, and we reached the point where we could no longer delay it.

The previous building was 30 years old and had reached the end of its serviceable life. Conditions within the convenience store were no longer up to standard. The rebuild also requires substantial internal and underground infrastructure upgrades, including the installation of new fuel lines and a new oil/water separator to help protect the environment.

Why summer instead of fall or winter?

We chose the summer for two practical reasons. Dry conditions are essential for the underground work to be completed safely and responsibly. If contaminated soil is encountered during the wet season, there is an increased risk of runoff reaching storm drains or the ocean, which is a risk we are not willing to take.

Furthermore, a seven-month timeline beginning in September would place the most weather-sensitive phases of construction in January and February, which would likely stretch the closure timeline into the following summer and add significant cost to the project.

Starting the project during the summer allowed us to keep the closure period as short and cost effective as possible.

Will the air station and vacuum still be available during the closure?

The air station and vacuum are not available during the closure period. Due to construction activity in the area, including exposed fuel lines and electrical work, the site must remain clear to ensure safety. These amenities will be reinstated as part of the new facility.

Why wasn't a member survey done before this decision was made?

Major infrastructure decisions of this nature are made by the elected Board of Directors, who represent members in setting the long-term direction of the Co-op.

We encourage greater member participation and welcome feedback on how these processes can be improved.

Was a temporary fuel setup on site considered?

Yes, this option was carefully evaluated. However, with active construction, including exposed fuel tanks, fuel lines, and electrical work occurring simultaneously, the site cannot safely support ongoing fuel operations during this period.

To help reduce the impact of the closure, we have put several measures in place:

• We've coordinated with the District of Tofino to make sure essential vehicles, including fire, ambulance, and police, have continued access to fuel throughout the closure.
• Once the underground work is complete, we'll open a temporary kiosk so members can fuel up at the Co-op again and pick up the essentials, like coffee, while we finish the new convenience store. A reopening date has not yet been confirmed.

What about the impact on Co-op revenue?

We recognize that the timing of this renovation means missing some of our busiest months, and we do not take that lightly. However, delaying the project further would result in greater long-term costs to Tofino Co-op than the planned closure. Ongoing repairs to an aging facility, the risk of environmental issues, and the challenges of shifting construction into a less suitable seasonal window all contributed to this decision. This investment is intended to ensure the long-term sustainability of the business and continued service to our members well into the future.

What can members expect from the fuel and service when the new Gas Bar reopens?

Upon reopening, members can expect the same trusted fuel quality as before. Our tanks are in excellent condition and will be properly maintained throughout the rebuild. We look forward to welcoming the community back to a safer, more efficient, and modern facility designed to serve members for many years ahead.

Thank you for your patience and your engagement through this project. We'll keep sharing updates as work progresses.