Update: Long Spit (Whiffin Spit) Master Plan

We are planning for the future of Long Spit (Whiffin Spit) Park in the face of climate change, sea level rise and increases in park use.

In September, the District awarded a contract to KWL to analyze existing data available for predicted sea level rise and shoreline-specific conditions to provide short-term and long-term options to retain the environmental, recreational, and cultural values of Long Spit (the Spit). Through this project, we will also analyze the park and adjacent streets to determine if there is an opportunity to improve parking.

The consultants will provide near-term and long-term solutions for the Spit. In the near-term, they will analyze the existing data and provide a report on pros and cons of establishing the natural channel and providing options to retain pedestrian/vehicular access to the end of the Spit. Green shores design principles will be used where practical. On the long-term, the consultants will provide a report on the impacts of sea level rise and increase resiliency to storm action using green shores design principles

The consultants will also provide an analysis of the road rights of way within 500 m of the park to create 24 off-site parking spots thus increasing available parking by 50%. Conceptual design drawings with class D estimates for offsite parking may include reconfiguring the existing parking lot. Specific timelines for this phase of the project are not currently available.

We will continue to keep you informed on this project as new information becomes available.