The river walk is fenced off to the public because of the temporary fencing installed on the south side of the walkway. The adjacent multi-use trail is the alternate route for park users.

In order to remove the existing two-metre high temporary fencing and restore access to the public, a permanent metal safety railing installed on the walkway at the top of the stepped armour stone revetment is proposed.

Adequate space along the north side of the concrete river walk is available to install a permanent steel railing that will provide a safe and aesthetically pleasing barrier consistent with the existing railings in Assumption Park. The railings will be designed in segments so that in the event that the armour stone steps require adjustments in the future, the railing segments, can be removed and re-installed.

Prior to the installation of the permanent railings Parks will retain an engineer to evaluate the existing conditions and make recommendations regarding the design and installation of the permanent railings.

Parks recommends the installation of a permanent metal safety railing as the preferred solution for safe access to the river walk.

The estimated total project cost for the safety railings is $137,361 including administrative costs, contingency, design and installation. The funds requested include temporary financing costs and will be sufficient to complete the project.

Should Council approve the proposed pre-commitment of funds as outlined in the Financial Matters section of this report, the railings can be installed by the summer of 2020.

Risk Analysis:

The high water levels and existing condition of the stone steps are creating a significant risk for the public. Water levels are to remain high for the near future and the installation of permanent safety railings will greatly reduce the risk to the public.

Financial Matters:

The rental costs for the temporary fencing are currently being charged to the Parks Operating budget. In order to carry out the project in 2020 a pre-commitment of $137,361 from the 2021 capital budget is required. A breakdown of these costs are highlighted in the table below: