Kal Beach and Rotary Pier (photo credit: Google Maps)

By Pete McIntyre

Update

Kal Beach Pier upgrade still waiting for permit approval

Apr 22, 2024 | 5:00 AM

A project to upgrade the Kal Beach Rotary Pier in Coldstream is still waiting for regulatory approval before it can proceed.

Coldstream council awarded the contract to reconstruct the pier in August 2023 to Burton Marine Pile Driving, in the amount of $516,416.

The project was expected to start this spring, subject to permit approvals.

District of Coldstream staff applied to the province for environmental and archaeological (land disturbance) permits last year.

“The permits are still outstanding, but there has been communication between the province, Okanagan Indian Band, and the consultants to work through the requirements for the permits to be issued,” Janis Netzel, director of infrastructure services, said in a report to council.

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The pier, which dates back to 1934, has multiple failing wood piles, which will be replaced with longer-lasting steel piles.

District staff have been checking on the pier to make sure it remains safe for use.

Representatives of the three local Rotary Clubs (Vernon, Kalamalka and Silver Star) will be appearing at Coldstream council’s meeting on Monday, April 22, asking that Rotary’s naming rights to the pier be maintained after its rebuilt and that the local clubs be allowed to replace the current signage.

“Options include a monument with a plaque, and interpretive signage with a little blurb on the history of the pier. Refinishing and reusing an existing Rotary sign is one possible way to reduce costs,” the clubs stated in their presentation.

The Rotary reps are also proposing that a wheelchair-accessible ramp be added to the beach so that users of all abilities can enjoy the water, with Rotary willing to provide some funding for that.