Project Update - October 28, 2026

Work continues at the Tofino Co-op Gas Bar, with progress on the fuel area, canopy and new convenience store. Here’s a look at what has been completed and what’s coming next as we work toward bringing fuel service back to our community.

Project Highlights

Fuel Pumps and Fueling Area

The fuel pumps have been reinstalled, and the new concrete surface around the pumps is complete. These are important steps in preparing the fueling area for members and customers to return.

Preparations are also underway for the temporary sales kiosk, which will serve customers alongside the fuel pumps while construction continues on the new convenience store.

Electrical Room

Construction of the new electrical room is complete, and it is ready for equipment installation. Upcoming work includes installing the equipment and completing the power connections needed to support operations.

Petroleum Tanks

As shared in our previous update, the existing petroleum tanks have been tested and confirmed to be in good condition, with many years of service life remaining. These tanks will continue to serve the upgraded Gas Bar.

Store Construction and Access

The new convenience store is taking shape. The concrete floor is complete, structural steel supports are in place for the overhang around the entrance, and the first sections of wood framing have been installed.

New sidewalks, curbs and ramps are also in place around the store. Upcoming work includes continuing the building’s framing and paving the parking lot, entrances and exits.

Canopy Improvements

Structural work on the canopy is complete, along with the stonework at the base of its columns. The first layer of roofing material is also in place.

Further improvements will include new metal roofing, updated lighting and new finishing panels beneath the canopy, bringing a refreshed look to the fueling area.

What’s Next

Work will continue on the new convenience store, canopy improvements and paving, alongside preparations for the temporary sales kiosk. Our plan remains to reopen the fuel pumps with the temporary kiosk while construction of the new store continues.

Thank you for your patience and continued support throughout this project. We look forward to welcoming our members and community back to the Gas Bar.

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.