A new mobility mat covering rocks on the waterfront in Qualicum Beach has been whipped around lately by tides. (Town of Qualicum Beach)

By Ian Holmes

accessibility

‘It’s a testing process:’ new accessible beach mat in Qualicum Beach faces early challenges

Jul 15, 2021 | 5:30 AM

QUALICUM BEACH — An extended mat on Qualicum Beach’s waterfront to help the mobility challenged enjoy the beach had a rocky debut.

The Town’s manager of operations Arnold Schwabe said the portable non-slip mat a car could drive on has rolled up and washed down the beach in recent days due to extreme tides.

“We are still testing, we’re trying new methods to try to affix this to the beach as best we can and make it available for the longest period we can,” Schwabe said of the mat in place since late June.

Despite the early hiccups, Schwabe is confident the Town will find solutions to help the mobility challenged reach the beach during the summer months.

Less than half of the mat beside Shore Restaurant on the Island Hwy. was rolled out as of Wednesday, July 13 due to issues caused by the tide, Schwabe noted.

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He said the Town has clearance from Fisheries and Oceans Canada to make adjustments to stabilize the mat.

“We do have permission to clear rocks and sand from boat launches and things like that and we can put temporary sort of anchors in, but as far as permanent structures and pilings that requires different approval.”

The mat was purchased to be an asset during a multitude of events throughout Qualicum Beach to improve mobility and safety on snowy and icy terrain, and other events like Remembrance Day.

“We are looking for feedback, we are hoping that as residents encounter issues, or if they like it or dislike it, or have suggestions for other locations, we’re open to any of those suggestions at this point,” Schwabe said.

The 83-foot long three-piece mat is expected to cost the Town in the range of $15-20,000 and is projected to last five to 10 years, Schwabe said.

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ian@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @reporterholmes