Plans to construct a massive new marina in Prince Rupert to attract some of the 1,200 pleasure boats that pass by the community each year received a boost on October 12 with the announcement that Coast Sustainability Trust would be providing $250,000 toward the project.
That $250,000, combined with a $250,000 grant from the West Coast Community Adjustment Program and a conditional $300,000 contribution from the City of Prince Rupert, means almost half of the $1.7 million needed for construction has been secured.
Plans for the wharf include a 12-foot wide, 700 foot long concrete float system that would provide moorage for 32 vessels, which could range from 40 to 70 feet, and act as a breakwater for potential marina developments in the future. It would also serve to provide more public assess to the water.
“We only have about 10 available slips for these recreational boaters. That’s a big gap we intend to fill,” said Community Futures general manager John Farrell.
“The community has been talking about a lack of slip capacity for 25 years now. The wharf project is an important part of diversifying the local economy and revitalizing the tourism sector as it stands to generate $1.3 million in direct and indirect economic benefits,” said Economic Development Officer Derek Baker.
As well as creating waterfront access and more moorage, the marina is part of the Prince Rupert Port Authority's vision for a renewed Cow Bay area.