CBRM News

CBRM's proposal for Gabarus seawall moves forward with federal commitment

July 25, 2013

SYDNEY, NS – The Cape Breton Regional Municipality's proposal for a cost-shared repair to the Gabarus seawall has taken a positive step forward with a funding commitment from the federal government.

In a July 24 letter to Mayor Cecil Clarke, Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation indicated that while not acknowledging federal responsibility for the seawall, they are willing to consider funding repairs up to a maximum of $300,000 provided matching funds are available from the Province of Nova Scotia. The Cape Breton Regional Municipality had previously indicated they could contribute $100,000 to the project.

 

"This is a positive step forward and I appreciate the commitment and support from the federal government," said Mayor Clarke.

Clarke has written to the Premier to inform him of the federal government's commitment and has requested a matching contribution from the province.

"Our foremost concern is for public safety and the economic importance of the fishing harbour," said Clarke. "By working together, I hope the three levels of government can come to an agreement to begin work soon in advance of the storm season."

District 7 Councillor Ivan Doncaster represents the Gabarus area and he says he is hopeful this cost-shared project can move forward.

"If all three levels of government can work together we can get the repairs underway and that would be welcome news," said Doncaster.

CBRM's proposed budget of up to $700,000 is based on an initial estimate for repairs prepared by Province of Nova Scotia engineers of $600,000. This cost covered repairs to approximately 50 per cent of the seawall at the north end. Along with a commitment for funding, the municipality is also awaiting a final engineering assessment from the province to update the one year-old estimate.

CBRM's fire, police and emergency management officials participated in a public meeting in Gabarus that focused on the community's emergency response to a seawall failure.

Letter of commitment from ECBC for the seawall project and letter to Premier from Mayor Clarke.

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