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The BC Active Transportation Fund has granted the Town of Qualicum Beach $500,000 to assist in the development of a Waterfront Viewing Platform and Separated Walkway at the Memorial Avenue Waterfront Roundabout.
The funding will support the final phase of the Memorial Avenue Roundabout, featuring a separated walkway and an elevated viewing platform that extends over the Beach Creek Estuary and the "Green Shores" marine spit, both of which have attracted national recognition.
The Active Transportation Fund recognizes the Memorial Avenue Waterfront Roundabout's importance as a vital link in the Town's active transportation network, connecting the uptown to the waterfront and beyond, as well as acting as a gateway to welcome visitors to the waterfront. It also recognizes the need for a separate walkway for pedestrians, allowing a safe, conflict-free passage from cyclists, and vice versa.
The Town has invested heavily in the Memorial Avenue corridor over the years to bring it to a high standard of beautification and functionality. The full scope of improvements has included a rain garden at the intersection of Crescent Road and Memorial Avenue, undergrounding of utilities, a separated multi-use pathway, a functional roundabout, coastal protection, and a restored Beach Creek Estuary.
This project will help the waterfront reach its full potential, creating a destination for both tourists and locals, and supporting safe, active forms of recreation.
The walkway will include interpretive signage highlighting the estuary's abundant ecosystem and picturesque islands beyond. Additionally, restorative landscaping will be added to enhance and promote the estuary's natural habitat and rich ecosystem. Attractive and durable street furniture will be installed, and a public bicycle repair stand will be added for the convenience and functionality of cycling enthusiasts. These features will enhance the walkway's appeal, making it a comfortable and attractive space for visitors and locals alike.
Investing in active transportation infrastructure, as exemplified by this project, can have numerous benefits for the community, including improved safety, increased tourism, and an enhanced quality of life.
Mayor Teunis Westbroek says, “This grant recognizes that tourism, and active tourism particularly, is key to the economic well-being of our community. This project helps elevate the roundabout from a merely functional piece of infrastructure to a tourist attraction that helps give the Town an edge in a competitive tourist market. The Town is grateful to the Province for their generous support toward this project, and for partnering with the Town to create a healthy and attractive waterfront for generations to come.”
For more information on the project go to www.qualicumbeach.com/_viewing_walkway
Contact
Luke Sales, MCIP, RPP
Director of Planning and Community Development
250-752-6921
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