Once complete, a wider walkway and viewing platform will run adjacent to the Memorial Ave. intersection with Hwy. 19A in Qualicum Beach. (Town of Qualicum Beach)

By Alex Rawnsley

big money

Grant money secured to progress Qualicum Beach waterfront walkway

Nov 6, 2023 | 11:25 AM

QUALICUM BEACH — A considerable injection of funds is further financing a key part of the Oceanside waterfront.

The provincial government awarded the Town of Qualicum Beach $519,833 from their Destination Development Fund for the ongoing construction of the viewing platform and walkway project alongside the Memorial Ave. roundabout with Hwy 19A.

The addition of the latest grant takes the total money received from grants to just over $2 million, roughly two-thirds the cost of the total project.

“The combined grant funding gives recognition to the value of the Beach Creek Viewing Platform and Walkway as a transformative project set to elevate it into a premier tourist attraction that promotes environmental education, public safety, and active transportation,” the Town said in a media release.

Previous grants of $1.02 million from the federal government’s Active Transportation Fund and a further $500,000 from BC Active Transportation have further reduced the burden on local taxpayers.

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The viewing platform and walkway are set to connect the northern and southern sections of walkway in a more streamlined fashion at the roundabout.

It’s hoped the improvements will encourage active transportation, tourism, and education around local fish and plant life through interpretive signage.

“Ultimately, this transformation of the Beach Creek waterfront will support local businesses and foster community pride, revitalizing the area into a prized destination for both residents and visitors.”

Construction on the walkway started in June 2023 and is expected to be completed in early spring 2024.

Further restoration will take place beginning in May, re-planting different native species around the estuary.

The Memorial Ave. roundabout opened in early December 2021 and enhanced traffic flows in the busy, and previously congested area.

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