The redevelopment of Alberni's Fishermen’s Wharf looks to be another step closer to reality.
According to Mayor Ken McRae, the Island Coastal Economic Trust is slated to approve a funding application to continue with the work. McRae said Monday that the city applied for $4.8 million in funding. A Port Alberni Port Authority spokesman confirmed ICE-T has granted $3.45 million towards the total cost of $7.5 million.
A formal announcement involving the city, Port Alberni Port Authority and ICE-T is scheduled for later this week, ICE-T spokesperson Al Baronas said.
McRae made the announcement at city council’s Nov. 28 meeting.
The $7.5-million project includes a 50-foot wide by 450-foot long floating breakwater to the south side of the harbour.
Other additions included land for additional parking, fuel depot, float plane docking facility and another service bay float for boats.
Also envisioned is a cruise ship spot to host tendering and small cruise vessels that can also serve as a location for public use.
The project is also being underwritten with a combination of federal and provincial funding with the port authority making up any shortfall.
In August, the project received a financial boost from federal small craft harbours. An exact amount of the reward wasn’t disclosed.
Specifically, the funds were used to build a floating steel catamaran at Fishermen’s Harbour that was to be used for net repair and cargo unloading.
reporter@albernivalleynews.com
EDITED: For funding and project totals and details.