As the summer season approaches, one popular Maritime beach is being recommended for closure.
The Bay of Fundy has pounded Saint John’s Mispec Beach to the point where city hall is concerned about public safety, and there’s no time for money or repairs before beach season begins.
A major wind and rain storm hit the Fundy Coast last month, coinciding with an exceptionally high tide. Massive rocks, timber and concrete were tossed around like toys and the only staircases that provide public access to the beach were damaged.
Local residents say there are now numerous safety issues at the beach.
“Especially after the last storm, you go a few feet beyond the stairs and it’s a complete drop,” says David Griffin. “They’ve got a few barricades up there. It don’t mean a thing.”
The beach is a popular attraction in Saint John but a report to council says there is no money in the budget to repair the damage. There was similar damage about three years ago, but the city was able to tap into a provincial disaster relief program at the time. That program is not available in this case.
City staff is recommending the closure of Mispec Beach until further notice, but some beachgoers say that is unacceptable.
“Why should we have to drive to New River Beach, pay to park and get in?” asks Dian Sowery. “Nice place too, but no, this needs to be rectified and work started now, in some respect.”
The recommendation to close Mispec Beach is also not sitting well with at least one councillor.
“It’s really the only sandy, groomed beach that’s on the ocean,” says Coun. Ray Strowbridge. “It’s the only one we have. I’m not going to be supporting closing it.”
He hopes a combination of government and corporate money can be found for temporary repairs and to provide public access to the beach this summer.
With files from CTV Atlantic's Mike Cameron
