MEDIA RELEASE - City Acquires Former Esso Fuel Property

Council for the City of Port Alberni is pleased to announce the City is purchasing the former Esso fuel station property at 3000 Harbour Road. The property is adjacent to the City-owned properties at Harbour Quay and the Port Alberni Port Alberni Port Authority’s Harbour Quay Marina.    

The property purchase supports Council’s strategic priorities regarding waterfront redevelopment and public waterfront access.  In addition, this property was specifically targeted in the 2007 Port Alberni Uptown and Waterfront Redevelopment Study.   

“We are continually looking for opportunities to improve the accessibility to our waterfront, particularly in prime locations such as Harbour Quay,” said Mayor Mike Ruttan. “The City can now consider a number of options to enhance waterfront tourism, recreation, and public use”.    

The City is purchasing the property from Imperial Oil for $209,000 effective March 23, 2016, with funding from the Land Sale Reserve. A Certificate of Compliance from the Ministry of Environment has been received.

“It is increasingly important to secure valuable waterfront properties to ensure we are an attractive place for citizens to live and a popular destination for tourists,” remarked Mayor Mike Ruttan. “With highly valued amenities situated on both sides of this property, we have a great opportunity to create a physical connection that complements the entire area.”  

Development plans are yet to be determined. In the meantime the City will ensure the property is safe and well maintained.

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