Seabold Stair Replacement

The beach access stairs located at Seabold Rotary Park in Nanaimo were constructed in the mid 1990s to service local residents as an access point to the north Nanaimo beaches. The wide, winding staircase help users navigate the steep north shore bank. This amenity provides opportunity for exercise, access to ocean swimming, beach combing and beautiful scenic views.

In December 2018, some stair footings were damaged in a storm event. Due to the damage and overall condition of the facility, the structure was no longer safe for public use and permanently closed.

The City of Nanaimo began assessing the site and developing a plan to replace this important amenity.

Assessments Underway:

The repairs at this location require advance planning and budgeting as the damage to the structure and engineered piles was significant. In addition, pockets of root rot have been identified in the fir trees and have contributed to site instability. Stair repairs cannot begin until complex factors (slope stability, tree and root conditions, and safe construction access) are ensured.

Funding

Necessary funding to complete the stairs and address site safety is now in place. The City is looking at scheduling options as we coordinate this project with other planned activities.

Work Underway

• Root Rot Assessment - completed by Blackwell and Associates. 
• Root Rot Mitigation and tree removals--Mitigation measures to address the findings and future site access - completed summer 2026,
• Geotechnical assessment - completed with WSP
• Contractor estimating and coordination - procurement process underway

Timeline:

Once a workable timeline is confirmed, details will be shared. Restoring safe access at Seabold remains a priority, and the City appreciates the public’s patience as this work moves toward implementation.