Penticton pier will be rebuilt to half its length later this year

The City of Penticton is preparing to replace the pier on Okanagan Lake and is also seeking support from the community due to rising costs.

In a news release issued Friday afternoon, the city said the pier will be replaced to half of its current length later this year.

However, the city is inviting the community, businesses and private organizations to contribute to extending the length of the rebuild.

"Recognizing the pier as an important part of Penticton’s waterfront landscape, the structure will be replaced to half length,” said Scott Boyko, manager of public works for the City.

“We are open to conversations from interested parties about larger contributions to rebuild the pier up to its original length and what recognition for those contributions could look like.”

The city said the rising costs of material, supplies and labour, the cost of replacing the pier “like for like” was estimated to be nearly $2 million.

As a result of “significant” cost escalation for other projects, city staff suggested only replacing a portion of the pier so funding can be used for other priorities.

City council approved that during the budget deliberations last year with construction estimated at $800,000.

Members of the community, businesses and private organizations interested in providing a financial contribution to support extending the structure’s rebuild can contact Scott Boyko at [email protected] or visit penticton.ca/pier-replacement.