CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. - The chairman of Charlottetown’s parks and recreation committee says a floating dock will make access to the water easier off Victoria Park.
Construction is expected to begin around mid- to late-August. It will be located between the playground and the tennis courts.
“Perhaps one of the greatest challenges with the present shoreline conditions in Victoria Park is the inability to access and actually touch the water,’’ said Tweel.
“This whole docking system is for non-motorized, small craft vessels and when we talk about that we’re talking kayaking, canoes (and) paddle boats. Permitted public use will include the general public walking out on the dock which I want to emphasize will be the largest user group of them all,’’ Tweel said.
Related: Victoria Park floating dock bad idea, says Charlottetown resident
The councillor added the Victoria Park Comprehensive Master Plan that was received by council in 2014 contained a guiding document about improvements to the infrastructure within the park. Improved water access was noted.
“The ability to walk out and take a picture or dip one’s toes (in the water) is considered a desirable attribute of a waterfront boardwalk. And, there are not many places to safely launch a wind surf or paddle board (off the park).’’
Tweel said the docking system will also be ideal for those into public art or who simply want a better view of Skmaqn-Port-la-Joye-Fort Amherst across the harbour.
There is an area along the park shoreline where the placement of stones does give the public limited access to the water, but Tweel argues that it’s not accessible to everyone and “I would even argue it’s not safe’’.
This concept was floated last year during the floatilla event at the park in September. Tweel said it was very well received by the public.
