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Departure Bay Beachfront Construction Nearing Completion

NEWS RELEASE - Distributed April 29, 2016 9:00 AM

Summary

Construction activities are set to wrap up soon at the Departure Bay beachfront. This construction project delivers many upgrades to enhance this recreational area and greatly improves accessibility, safety and enjoyment opportunities for users.

Improvements include flattening the grade along the seawall walkway; installing new pedestrian access ramps and handrails; installing new LED street lights and walkway lights; installing new water and electrical services for events and vendors; improvements to parking facilities; and replacement of old storm drains on Loat Street and Departure Bay Road.

Concrete footings have also been installed as part of this project for a public art piece that will express the cultural and historical significance of the area to the Snuneymuxw First Nation.

Link to Strategic Plan: This project supports the Waterfront Enhancement priority of the strategic plan.

Key Points

  • The beachfront walkway and parking area is now open. The public are advised some minor final works are still ongoing and construction signage must still be observed.
  • Updates, including photos and videos of the construction work can be found on the City's blog located on the City of Nanaimo's website.

Quotes

"The improvements made to the Departure Bay walkway contribute to City's strategic goal of enhancing Nanaimo's beautiful waterfront so everyone can access it and enjoy it."

Bill McKay
Mayor
City of Nanaimo

"One of Nanaimo’s most popular destinations has been greatly improved with both aesthetic and accessibility enhancements. I am pleased to see these improvements at Departure Bay walkway and beach and am confident it will benefit Nanaimo’s residents and visitors as they experience one of Nanaimo’s best waterfront parks."

Ian Thorpe
Councillor
City of Nanaimo

Quick Facts

  • The contractor who completed the work for the City is Knappett Industries (2006) Ltd.
  • Archaeological consultants Millennia Research Ltd. and the Snuneymuxw First Nation completed monitoring of construction work due to the cultural and heritage significance of the area.
  • The approved budget for the overall project is $964,000, which includes storm drain replacement work; archaeological monitoring mitigation and reporting; and a planned public art piece near the north end of the walkway.
  • The project fulfills goals and objectives identified in the Departure Bay Neighbourhood Plan which was adopted by City Council in 2006.
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Contact:

Kurtis Noble
Engineering Projects Technologist
City of Nanaimo
250-755-4409 Ext 4335

Print News Release

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