Pandora Avenue changes not visible a year after Victoria funding pledge

A year after Victoria committed $10 million to public-safety measures on Pandora Avenue, Mayor Marianne Alto says the work is taking longer and requires more support than expected.

The funding announced last July included additional police and bylaw officers. Alto had said residents would see a difference within six months, but now acknowledges significant work remains in an area where many people face homelessness, addiction and mental-health challenges.

Staff at Robinson’s Outdoor Store, who had raised concerns about vandalism and petty crime last summer, told CTV News they have not seen a meaningful improvement.

The Downtown Victoria Business Association welcomed the city’s efforts but said more provincial funding for treatment and housing supports is needed. The Ministry of Health said it will continue working with partners to improve access to mental-health and addictions care based on individual needs.