The Port Elgin Main Beach “Beach House” washroom and storage facility received its official ribbon cutting July 20.

Hub Staff

The newly renovated “Beach House” washroom located at the bottom of the Green Street hill at Port Elgin’s Main Beach received its official ribbon cutting ceremony July 20 with Town staff and local dignitaries present.

Director of Community Services for the Town of Saugeen Shores Jayne Jagelewski said the new renovation that cost $640,000 marries the new with the old and boasts four accessible family pods, and a new home for Port Elgin Pumpkinfest. Jagelewski was happy to note that of the four family pods two are larger to eventually fit two adult changing beds. The new aspects also feature outdoor showers and a foot washing station.

The south of the building features a shared storage space for the Saugeen Shores Lifesaving Club, Social Athletics of Saugeen Shores, a beach tractor and the harbour’s golf cart.

In her speech to the crowd before the ribbon cutting Jagelewski said that Town staff who monitor the washrooms are already noticing less sand in the facility and recognized four staff members by name Steve Gallie, Chris Vanhaelemeesch, Horticulturist Bry Zorzi and Baileigh Petrik and her cleaning crew.

Mayor Mike Smith noted that getting approval for the Beach House was a process and the project went through many designs. Smith said that he was a big supporter of the renovation and the ability to make a facility accessible and one that pleases everyone who comes to Saugeen Shores.

Port Elgin Pumpkinfest Coordinator Joanne Robbins is excited to be located near the beach and joked that she may become easily distracted with the views out her window. Robbins is gearing up for the 32nd year of the fall event and will use the beach house as office space until Thanksgiving.

Director of Community Services Jayne Jagelewski, project managers, Saugeen Shores Mayor Mike Smith and Town staff at the official ribbon cutting June 20.

Mayor Mike Smith was assisted by Town staff when he cut the ribbon to officially open the accessible facility.

The Beach House is also the new home for Port Elgin Pumpkinfest. Pictured, Coordinator Joanne Robbins in her new digs.

One of four accessible family pods that also acts as a change room in the new Beach House located at the Port Elgin Main Beach.

New foot cleaning stations.

The storage facility located at the south side of the building is a space shared by the Town, Saugeen Shores Lifesaving Club and Social Athletics of Saugeen Shores.