Plans to shore up the banks of the Sydenham River in downtown Wallaceburg have taken another step forward.
At Monday night’s council meeting, members unanimously approved a $414,337.10 assessment of the Sydenham Fork Breakwall.
Delta Science and Engineering Inc. submitted the lowest bid and will begin work immediately to determine the condition of approximately 800 metres of breakwall, 650 metres of pedestrian infrastructure, and adjacent underground infrastructure.
The municipality owns the 800 metres of breakwall along the north and south banks of the Sydenham River, between the Lord Selkirk Bridge and the river fork.
The project will include inspections of the breakwalls, pedestrian areas, and sewers, while also studying the site’s soil, environment, and history to determine if repairs or replacement are necessary.
According to staff, following the assessment, detailed design will begin this fall for the identified improvements and lifecycle needs. Upon completion of design and required permitting and approvals, administration anticipates construction will begin in 2028.
Funding for the project was approved as part of the 2025 Capital Budget. Funding for the detailed design and future capital improvements has also been approved and will be updated through the capital budget process following the assessment.