Sidney will repair Beacon Wharf enough to buy time to replace or fully repair the structure that extends the town core.
“We’re looking at a repair that will last five to 10 years,” said Mayor Larry Cross. “At that time council will have some options.”
Repairs include replacing 13 pilings, concrete encasing on five pilings, and poly-wrapping 12 others. A number of structural timbers, braces, fittings, hardware and portions of the deck will also be replaced at an estimated cost of $275,000
“It’s a question of getting on with it,” Cross said, citing municipal insurance concerns. “It will be repaired and be operational as quickly as possible.”
Sidney’s engineering department has already prepared the tender documents which could go out this week. The repairs are expected to take about two months, factoring in the tender process and statutory notice to users of the wharf, municipal staff hope to see it reopen in July. The wharf at the foot of Beacon Avenue is home to the iconic blue fish market, as well as a restaurant and is used for local water-based tourism businesses.
“Staff will be in touch with anybody who will be impacted,” Cross said.
The repairs would maintain the wharf for pedestrian use only.
The town will also begin to develop concept plans – for review in 2013 – for a new lower maintenance, longer lifecycle promenade and wharf to replace the existing structure. Council could at that time consider the avenues for public input on replacement options for the wharf such as a referendum or survey.
