About the Project
Location: McNeill Bay
Type of Work: Preliminary Design
Timeline: Winter 2026/27
Kerr Wood Leidal Associates Ltd. (KWL) has been awarded a contract to prepare the preliminary design for a sea wall at McNeill Bay. This is to help reduce the ongoing erosion along approximately 200 meters of McNeill Bay.
Project Updates
Nov. 2 | Fall Update - Preliminary Design and Monterey Outfall
Preliminary Design Scope
The project team is currently finalizing the preliminary design package. Once complete, District staff will review the package to ensure it meets the project’s objectives and includes all required information.
Staff anticipate bringing a report to Council in winter 2026/27. The report will provide an overview of the preliminary design work, summarize the evaluation of options and feasibility findings, present updated cost estimates, and outline recommended next steps.
Monterey Stormwater Outfall Repairs
The district will also undertake a follow-up geotechnical assessment of the Monterey Avenue outfall and staircase to determine whether the completed pipe repairs have reduced the associated risks at the site.
Construction work at the Monterey outfall has been deferred until a suitable construction window is available. Scheduling will take into account tidal conditions, site access requirements, and environmental considerations to ensure the work can be completed safely and effectively.
Aug. 26 | Storm Outfall Repair Work
Starting Thursday, August 27, crews will be installing a pipe liner inside the existing storm pipe at Beach Drive at Monterey Avenue. This work will restore the structural integrity of the storm main pipe, sealing the pipe and reducing erosion from behind the headwall while minimizing disruption to the surrounding area.
The work starts August 27, 2026, and is anticipated to be completed in two days.
Traffic/Impacts
• Work will be performed from the road surface on Beach Drive, with minimal work taking place on the beach.
• Typical hours of work are expected between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
• The sidewalk will remain open.
• Signage will be posted to assist pedestrians and cyclists navigating the area.
• Possible delays through the construction site should be expected.
• Please exercise caution when walking through site.
Monterey Beach Access
Beach access at Monterey Avenue and Beach Drive is closed due to erosion around the headwall of the storm
outfall. The stairs will remain closed until the design and construction of the sea wall are complete.
Apr. 21 | Beach Access at Monterey Ave. Closed
The beach access at Monterey Avenue is closed due to erosion occurring around the stairs. The entrance will remain closed as the District evaluates our options to repair the damage.
Visitors can still access the beach from the entrance at Beach Drive at Oliver Street.
Jan. 7 | Work Scheduled for Jan. 19
On January 19, contractors will be onsite conducting small exploratory excavations in the grass boulevard located behind the embankment.
Traffic Impacts
During work, there will be reduced public parking along Beach Drive. Public access will remain open throughout the project, with traffic controls in place (if necessary) to ensure safety and assist pedestrians and drivers through the work zone.
Dec. 3 | December 2025 Update
Brush clearing near McNeill Bay was completed this fall to support survey of the bank.
Archaeological, geotechnical and environmental assessments are planned for December 2025 and January 2026.
Traffic Impacts
- Reduced public parking on beach drive during work
- Public access to the beach will be maintained
Additional Information
Can I still visit the beach?
The beach will remain open to the public throughout the project. Visitors may notice teams working around the embankment to study the area for design, however, ground disturbance will be kept to a minimum.
What will the designs look like?
While early in the process, two designs are currently being considered. These include a bio-engineered wall (layers of reinforced, vegetated growing mediums placed on stacked rock) or an architectural concrete seawall.
How will the Design be chosen?
Staff and the consultant are undertaking a Multiple Accounts Evaluation, a formal process to compare the two options in terms of technical feasibility, cost, environmental impacts, and constructability. The recommended option will be presented to Council at a meeting in winter 2026/2027.
When will council weigh in next?
Staff expect to report to Council in winter 2026/27 with the recommended design, anticipated schedule, cost estimate, and an update on required provincial permits and approvals.
Will there be impacts to trees and vegetation?
Trees and other vegetation within the work area are expected to be affected. Where vegetation is removed, the District will consider restoration with native grasses and plants.