Corroded lamp standards and arches along the White Rock Pier are putting pedestrians at risk of “severe personal injury,” warns a report from the city’s director of engineering and municipal operations.
According to the report, an aggressive marine environment and vandalism are at the root of the deterioration. “Imminent replacement” is needed, Rob Thompson writes.
“The bases of many of the lamp standards are severely corroded to the point that they may fall in inclement weather or as a result of vandalism,” he writes. “There have been incidents of the lights on the arches shorting out, and there is a possibility of severe personal injury should a pedestrian be in contact with the arches during such an event.”
The report – along with a request council authorize a contract budget increase for the work – was to be considered Monday night, after Peace Arch News’ deadline.
Coun. Helen Fathers said prior to the meeting that she was surprised by both the anticipated cost and how dire the situation sounds.
“When you read that document, it sounds like the pier is falling to pieces,” Fathers said.
She wondered why all councillors weren’t given the opportunity to participate in a recent walk-through of the area, and planned to question the process Monday night.
Thompson’s report recommends council authorize a contract for the work – worth an estimated $414,900 – be awarded following closure Tuesday of a Request for Proposals.
The report notes a condition assessment – funded in part by a federal grant – identified a need for “relatively minor” repairs to the pier structure, however, a long-term maintenance program must first be developed.
To apply remaining grant funds to the lamp standards and arches work, the project must be substantially completed by Oct. 31.
The Pier Preservation Reserve and Undesignated Capital Reserve are recommended sources of the remaining funds needed.
After consulting with the White Rock Museum & Archives, Thompson also recommended the city stay with a heritage design for the project.