MP Pamela Goldsmith-Jones has brought federal funding to the Coast for the first time since taking office almost a year ago – however, no one knows the amount of money being promised.
On Sept. 8 Goldsmith-Jones made an announcement that the Gibsons Landing Harbour Authority (GLHA) would get a portion of $289 million the federal government plans to invest in repairs, maintenance, construction and dredging projects in small craft harbours across Canada in 2016 and 2017.
Gibsons will get some amount of funding for new sheet piling (sheeting affixed to the pilings) to be placed beneath the wharf on the north side to help protect boats in the harbour from swells created by the ferry.
“I can’t be specific about the amount because of course of the tendering process,” Goldsmith-Jones told those gathered for the announcement on Sept. 8.
“But know that money will be there for you and for the community.”
Gibsons Mayor Wayne Rowe said new sheet piling “might not be sexy, but it’s needed.”
“This harbour is very important to us and we’re thankful for the investment in infrastructure,” Rowe said. “We hope it will attract more.”
Terry Rhodes, president of the GLHA, said the current sheet piling at the Gibsons wharf has been failing for quite a few years and he’s thankful the government will be addressing the problem.
The GLHA has its eye on some other improvements for the harbour as well, including the installation of another concrete float for fishermen and the ultimate expansion of the entire harbour to accommodate more vessels.
“But that’s probably a few years away yet,” Rhodes said, noting the GLHA will likely seek federal funding for those projects in the future.
