White Rock Pier Replacement Receives $25.9M Federal Grant
Emma MacLeod
7/2/20262 min read
The federal government is contributing nearly $26 million toward the replacement of White Rock Pier, a major restoration project aimed at preserving one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.
The funding, announced Wednesday, will support the next phase of reconstruction for the pier in Semiahmoo Bay, which the city describes as a cherished public space and key destination for residents and visitors.
A large section of the wooden pier was destroyed during a major storm in 2018. While that damaged portion was repaired, the city says the remaining two-thirds of the pier is now reaching the end of its service life.
According to a news release, that section requires full replacement in order to meet current seismic safety requirements.
City Calls Pier Its ‘Crown Jewel’
White Rock Mayor Megan Knight said the $25.9-million grant is the largest federal grant the city has ever received.
She said the funding will help protect what she called the city’s “crown jewel” for future generations.
“It is an honour to have advocated for the iconic White Rock Pier — our city’s most cherished public space and destination enjoyed daily by residents and visitors,” Knight said in the release.
She said the restoration will ensure the pier remains safe, resilient and accessible while preserving the heritage and history that help define White Rock.
Historic Pier Dates Back More Than a Century
The pier is 470 metres long and was originally built in 1914–15, according to the city.
It was restored in 1977 and has since remained one of White Rock’s most important public landmarks.
The city is contributing nearly $4.07 million toward the reconstruction project.
The work will also include collaboration with the Semiahmoo First Nation on cultural and historical preservation, as well as fishing boat storage.
Replacement to Improve Safety and Accessibility
The federal government said Phase 2 of the project will extend the pier’s service life and bring it up to current seismic and accessibility standards.
The deteriorating timber structure will be replaced with a more durable and resilient design.
The federal funding is being provided through the Build Communities Strong Fund.
MP Says Pier Is Key to Local Economy
Ernie Klassen, MP for South Surrey–White Rock, described the pier as the backbone of White Rock’s economy.
He said the landmark is the city’s top tourist destination and needs to be improved and protected.
“This pier is what represents White Rock,” Klassen told Peazzi. “It’s been here for over 100 years, and people from all across the province, all across the country come to see the pier, to see the iconic waterfront here.”
Klassen said the repairs are expected to take several years from start to finish.
Once complete, he said the renewed pier will continue representing White Rock for generations to come.
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