Fred Raper Park (Photo from Visit Grey website)
Meaford is awarding an over $294,000 tender for the rehabilitation of the Bayfield Street shoreline.
During a meeting on June 12, council received a report from Director of Financial Services and Treasurer Valerie Manning. It recommended awarding the tender to Naturally Green Landscaping Ltd.
The report says the shoreline along Bayfield Street, from Fred Raper Park to the Meaford Museum, has experienced erosion as a result of high water levels in the Great Lakes.
“This erosion poses a significant threat to the existing shoreline, which services as a critical barrier safeguarding essential infrastructure, including roads, sidewalks, storm sewers, and water and wastewater lines,” says the report.
This project aims to address needed repairs in the area, which shields the parking lot and sidewalk area of Fred Raper Park. The area currently has a hazard rating of three out of five, with one being the highest risk.
“Taking action to complete these repairs is essential to ensure the long-term stability and resilience of the shoreline,” adds the report.
The municipality received two tender submissions, with Naturally Green Landscaping being the cheapest, but staff say the company has worked for the municipality before and have produced good work.
The 2023 capital budget includes just over $291,000 for the rehabilitation. To cover the shortfall, it is recommended transferring the needed funds from the Working Capital Reserve.