An assessment to improve the Sydenham River shoreline in Wallaceburg has an estimated cost of nearly $400,000.
On Monday night's Chatham-Kent Council meeting, councillors are set to vote on the $373,000 price tag for the work that includes inspecting and assessing approximately 800 metres of breakwalls and 650 metres of pedestrian infrastructure, along with camera inspections of all nearby storm and sanitary sewers.
Administration said the assessment is to determine if the shoreline needs rehabilitation or replacement of the breakwalls, pedestrian infrastructure, and sewers.
The work will include many studies and investigations, such as geotechnical, archaeological, and natural heritage assessments, along with bathymetric and topographic surveys, according to staff.
Key stakeholders will also be consulted throughout the assessment, said administration.
The municipality noted approximately 800 metres of breakwall along the north and south banks of the Sydenham River, between the Lord Selkirk Bridge and the fork of the Sydenham River in Wallaceburg, require review and capital improvements.
"Improvements to and extension of the breakwalls are required as part of lifecycle work, and in advance of enhancements identified in the Wallaceburg South Side Secondary Plan (WSSSP), along the shoreline and park areas," staff recommended.
If approved, the assessment phase is expected to be completed in August and detailed design for the identified improvements and lifecycle needs will begin in the Fall.
Construction is anticipated to start in 2028.
Funding for the project has already been approved by Council as part of the 2025 Capital Budget and will be updated throughout the upcoming capital budget process if required.
