Skip to content

Qualicum Beach waterfront planning gets a boost from grant

Federal gas-tax fund kicks in $150,000 for the project, public consultation will begin in 2014

The Town of Qualicum Beach announced Monday it was successful in its application for $150,000 in funding to support its  Waterfront Master Plan project.

The money comes from the Gas Tax Fund, a federal-provincial transfer agreement. The town applied for funding in early 2012 to support the project, which is one of the implementation measures identified in the 2011 Official Community Plan.

"The waterfront plays a central part in the town's economy and cultural identity, and maintaining its character is a top priority cited by residents," said Mayor Teunis Westbroek.

According to a news release issued by the town Monday, the Waterfront Master Plan project will begin this fall and aims to be completed in 2015. Extensive public consultation will begin in 2014 after the first phase of planning — the coastal engineering analysis— is substantially complete. Planning aspects will address not only foreshore management and engineering infrastructure, but will also look at recreation, culture, aesthetic and economic development opportunities, said the town.

Residents are invited to stop in to the town hall foyer to view display boards about sea level rise and read further information on the Waterfront Master Plan project.

The project will begin officially with a Public Information meeting to be scheduled for this fall. 2

-— NEWS Staff/Town of Qualicum Beach