Ernie Klassen, MP for South Surrey-White Rock announced July 1 that White Rock Pier would be receiving $25 million for reconstruction through the Build Communities Strong Fund.
The fund is investing over $50 billion in a wide range of infrastructure projects across Canada.
“The Build Communities Strong Fund is building the infrastructure that Canadians rely on every day. Today’s investment in the White Rock Pier reconstruction will restore a waterfront landmark to preserve its long-term legacy for residents, visitors, and future generations,” said Klassen.
“It will improve safety and accessibility, strengthen weather resiliency, and ensure the Pier remains a notable feature in White Rock for years to come.”
The White Rock Pier had massive damage during the 2018 winter storm. A 100-metre section of the Pier was destroyed.
The rest of the Pier is now reaching the end of its service life and will require a full replacement to meet safety standards, including seismically.
The White Rock Pier is in Semiahmoo Bay and is a point of pride for the community. It has both cultural and historical importance to the area.
This second phase of reconstruction will help prolong the Pier’s life, improve safety, and meet both structural and accessibility standards.
There is timber that is now in a state that needs to be replaced with a more durable and resilient design.
The Semiahmoo First Nation is being consulted on cultural and historical preservation and for fishing boat storage.
There will be improved access from a new ramp at the upper intertidal beach to the north end of the Pier to have equal access for those of all ages and abilities.