Rehabilitation of the Port Elgin breakwater will begin shortly in a project led by Fisheries and Oceans Canada. In a November 21 Town of Saugeen Shores media release, equipment and supplies have already begun arriving at the Port Elgin Main Beach parking area from the bandshell south towards the Beach House, which will serve as a staging area during construction.
A significant step in the ongoing effort to revitalize the Port Elgin waterfront, the scope of the work involves encapsulating the existing timber crib wharves with new steel sheet piling. Other associated work includes the installation of tieback anchors and anchor walls, removal and reinstatement of armour stone, and the installation of new concrete walkways along the refurbished breakwater.
“The breakwater rehabilitation will give our beach and harbour more robust protection against wave action,” said Mayor Luke Charbonneau. “And will also create a safer, more enjoyable experience for those visiting this area.”
As activities progress, access to the promenade will be closed. The anticipated completion date is spring of 2020.
The breakwater has been closed to the public since due to safety concerns since 2017.
