A new viewing platform and walkway is coming to Qualicum’s waterfront, where town officials say the upgrades will enhance safety for locals and visitors alike.
Construction starts this week on the platform and walkway adjacent to the Memorial Avenue and Highway 19A roundabout, according to the town in a release.
Over the years, the Town of Qualicum has invested “heavily” in the Memorial Avenue corridor — a route it says “serves as a vital connection and gateway to our beloved beach, attracting countless visitors year-round.”
With a new separated walkway, the town says the safety and accessibility of the Memorial/19A route will be “significantly” improved, with pedestrians, scooters and other users no longer needing to share the bike lane with cyclists, which posed challenges for people with mobility devices.
“Moreover, the walkway will enable children and those uncomfortable navigating bike lanes in close proximity to traffic to traverse the route with ease,” reads the release.
“To further support cyclists, a public bicycle repair stand will be installed, catering to cycling enthusiasts in the area.”
Construction is scheduled to take place Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., with traffic interruptions expected to be minimal.
It comes on the heels of $1,018,638 in funding from the Government of Canada through the Active Transportation Fund, as well as $500,000 from the BC Active Transportation Provincial Fund, which the town says will “propel…efforts to create an enhanced and accessible waterfront experience…”
Mayor Teunis Westbroek says the town is grateful for the funds.
“This funding will play a pivotal role in unlocking the waterfront’s full potential, creating a destination that promotes safety, accessibility, and active forms of recreation,” said Westbroek in a statement.
The project tender was awarded to Knappett Industries for $2,493,051.
“In addition, the viewing platform will serve as a captivating destination, enticing both tourists and locals to pause and appreciate the breathtaking vista of the Beach Creek estuary and the Strait of Georgia,” reads the release.
“The installation of attractive and durable street furniture, along with interpretive signage, will elevate the appeal of the walkway, creating a comfortable and visually pleasing environment for visitors and residents alike.”
The project should be complete by November.
(Supplied by: Town of Qualicum)
Ethan Morneau
