A grant of up to $60,000 from the Ontario Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility will help enhance access at the Port Sydney beach.
Work in the area was already planned for 2021 but the successful grant will help make the project “even better,” explained Huntsville director of finance/treasurer Julia McKenzie at council’s March 22 meeting. “This is a good news story,” she added.
A total of $219,000 was set aside in the municipality’s 2021 capital budget to maintain and upgrade existing infrastructure at the Port Sydney beach, but the grant will help expand the scope of the project and enhance accessibility, according to staff. It will enable the installation of a 50-metre-long accessible ramp from the parking area to the beach as well as mobility mats at the beach to allow persons with disabilities and those with mobility issues easier access to the beach and water.
The work will also include leveling and providing ramps as required to access the shelter building, wharf, and main dock.
Prompted by a question from Councillor Jason FitzGerald regarding what the project now entails, McKenzie said the funding announcement had changed the scope of the project. “It was a much smaller project.” She also said the funding would now include paving and better handrails.
Councillor Dan Armour applauded the project. “I think that’s great—$60,000 I think is going to be amazing down there. Well done.”
Councillor Dione Schumacher echoed Armour’s sentiments and said she was appreciative that the funds had been secured.
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Great news. The resurfacing of the dock looks good and long-lasting.
I do hope dark sky watching will be kept in mind. I see the lights by the dock have been replaced with white lights, unlike the amber street lights in the area (which are less intrusive to the eye and night). And now there is bright white light under the gazebo (maybe to discourage young folks hanging out?). It all affects star/dark sky visibility.
Huntsville has some “dark sky” considerations in by-laws. Let’s keep the idea in fact (amber, right light only where/when needed, timers, sensors). We all need to be able to see the stars at the public beach, and it is a tourist draw. I hope it is included in the plan.
Thanks so much for all your help with this Jason Fitzgerald!!
Well done.
Jon Fenwick.