ERNIE Klassen, MP for South Surrey-White Rock, on Wednesday announced a federal investment of more than $25 million toward phase 2 of the White Rock Pier reconstruction through the Direct Delivery stream of the Build Communities Strong Fund.
Located in Semiahmoo Bay, the Pier is one of the community’s most iconic waterfront landmarks, with significant cultural and historical importance. During the 2018 winter storm, a 100-metre section of the Pier was destroyed. The remaining two-thirds are now approaching the end of their service life and require full replacement to meet current seismic safety requirements.
Phase 2 of the White Rock Pier reconstruction will extend the Pier’s service life, enhance safety, and align with modern seismic, structural, and accessibility standards. It will replace the deteriorated timber structure with a more durable and resilient design, improving long-term safety, reliability, and resistance to severe weather and marine conditions.
The project will also include collaboration with Semiahmoo First Nation on cultural and historical preservation and fishing boat storage, improved access through a new ramp from the upper intertidal beach to the north end of the Pier to ensure equitable access for all ages and abilities, expanded landing space to support emergency vehicle access, and embedded utility conduits to maintain essential services during and after emergencies.
Klassen said: “The Build Communities Strong Fund is building the infrastructure that Canadians rely on every day. Today’s investment in the White Rock Pier reconstruction will restore a waterfront landmark to preserve its long-term legacy for residents, visitors, and future generations. It will improve safety and accessibility, strengthen weather resiliency, and ensure the Pier remains a notable feature in White Rock for years to come.”
White Rock Mayor Megan Knight said: “The City of White Rock is grateful to the Government of Canada for the investment of over 25 million dollars from the Build Communities Strong Fund toward Phase 2 of the Pier Reconstruction. This announcement is the largest federal grant ever received in our city, and it is an honour to have advocated for the iconic White Rock Pier – our city’s most cherished public space and destination enjoyed daily by residents and visitors. This essential restoration will protect our community’s crown jewel for generations to come, ensuring it remains safe, resilient and ready for use as we continue safeguarding the heritage and history that defines our city.”
