Following a comprehensive and collaborative planning process, the Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) is pleased to announce that the draft of its 10-Year Tourism Strategic Framework is now available for public review and feedback. This crucial document will guide the sustainable development of tourism in the Comox Valley for the next decade.
Since the launch of the tourism strategy planning process, Experience Comox Valley, the CVRD’s Tourism Service, has been working with 4EVER Strategies (formerly 4VI) to engage with residents, businesses, community organizations, rights-holders and local government to collaboratively design a tourism strategy with actions that are aligned with community values, environmental sustainability, economic growth, and cultural preservation.
"Community participation has been the cornerstone of this strategic process," added David Rooper, Chair of the Comox Valley Tourism Advisory Committee. “It was very inspiring to see all the ideas, positive energy and shared values exchanged among a very passionate group of people. The feedback gathered throughout the initial phases has directly shaped this draft. Now is the critical moment for residents and businesses to review what has been proposed and offer their final thoughts. Your input will ensure this strategy is robust, reflective of our collective vision, and poised to create a dynamic future and weather future challenges.”
This draft strategic framework provides a clear roadmap for sustainable tourism development, balancing economic growth with environmental preservation and social well-being for the region. It addresses key areas such as destination management, sector growth, visitor experience, and community interest.
"We are incredibly proud of the collaborative effort that has gone into developing this robust 10-Year Tourism Strategy," said Will Cole-Hamilton, CVRD Board Chair. "This strategic framework reflects the diverse voices and aspirations of our community, aiming to ensure tourism in the Comox Valley continues to thrive responsibly. We now invite everyone to review the final draft and provide their invaluable input, ensuring it truly represents the future we envision for our region."
Call to Action: Provide Your Input on the Draft Strategic Framework!
The CVRD and Experience Comox Valley are now encouraging community members, businesses, and interest-holders to review the draft strategic framework. This is an opportunity to have a final review of the document that will shape the future of tourism in the Comox Valley.
To review the final draft strategy please visit:
- Engage Comox Valley: www.engagecomoxvalley.ca/tourismstrategyplan
- Comox Valley Visitor Centre - Pick up a printed copy of the draft Tourism Strategy and provide feedback in person or via phone at 250-400-2882.
- Visit us in person at one of our three open houses with opportunities to join in Comox, Courtenay, and Cumberland. Dates and locations are to be confirmed, please check www.engagecomoxvalley.ca/tourismstrategyplan for details.
- Join us for a virtual open house on September 4, from 6-7pm PST to provide your feedback. Joining details available at www.engagecomoxvalley.ca/tourismstrategyplan.
The public input period will be open from August 5 to September 8, 2025.
The CVRD and Experience Comox Valley extend their gratitude to everyone who has participated in this process so far and encourage continued engagement in this final review stage. Together, we can ensure that the Comox Valley remains a cherished and sustainable destination for generations to come.
For media inquiries and further information, please contact:
Lisa Kilpatrick
Community Development & Resilience Manager, CVRD
lkilpatrick@comoxvalleyrd.ca
250-334-6093
The Comox Valley Regional District is a partnership of three electoral areas and three municipalities operating on the unceded traditional territory of the K’ómoks First Nation, the traditional keepers of the land. The members of the regional district work collaboratively on providing sustainable services for the benefit of the diverse urban and rural areas of the Comox Valley.
Background Information
Experience Comox Valley is the tourism service of the Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD). This service is administered by 4EVER Strategies (formerly 4VI) and includes destination marketing, visitor information servicing, and industry engagement. The Comox Valley Tourism Service area includes: City of Courtenay, Town of Comox, Village of Cumberland, Baynes Sound portion of Electoral Area A, Electoral Area B (Lazo North) and Electoral Area C (Puntledge – Black Creek). The Comox Valley Tourism Advisory Committee (TAC) comprises 11 members across various tourism sectors including accommodations, transportation, food & beverage, arts & culture, indigenous tourism, and adventure tourism. The TAC guides the work of Experience Comox Valley.