Crews are starting work on the Saugeen Beach Road in Port Elgin.
A release from the Town says the new design will minimize erosion and protect the natural beach area near the road which is off Bruce Road 25, not far from UNIFOR.
The project consists of reinstating asphalt & road-base as well as installing armour stone protection. The design will mimic natural storm water runoff as much as possible, while minimizing water ponding and beach erosion that would occur if a traditional storm water pipe had been used.
The Town says it has undertaken the project with significant input from residents, who were concerned about the road withstanding high water events, as well as providing more space for beach users.
The project also eliminates parking on the beach, allowing for more towel space for beach users.
According to the Town, the transition area from the road to the beach will include a rope-and-post design to separate traffic from pedestrians, along with wooden walkways and dune grass. These amenities will make the beach more pedestrian-friendly while minimizing the amount of sand that migrates onto the road.
Mayor Luke Charbonneau says in a statement, “This is an important project that restores an important road in our community,” adding, “This work will make the road safer for both drivers and beach users, while helping to preserve the beach itself. By engaging residents, we have found a long-term solution.”
The Town has provided notice to residents that crews may close the road to through traffic; however, residents will still have vehicular access. The work is expected to last until mid-December.
