St. Catharines now owns the Port Dalhousie piers, Lakeside Park

The city of St. Catharines officially owns the Port Dalhousie piers.

Joyce Murray, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans, and the Canadian Coast Guard will transfer the ownership of the Port Dalhousie piers and harbour lands including Lakeside Park to the city.

Council approved this motion on Monday.

“The transfer of the Port Dalhousie piers and harbour lands to the city will ensure this important historical landmark will continue to make St. Catharines a waterfront destination for residents and visitors alike,” said Chief Administrative Officer David Oakes.

The city has leased the Port Dalhousie piers and harbour lands including Lakeside Park from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans since 1992.

The city subleases portions of the lands to multiple sub-tenants, which will continue after the transfer, including the St. Catharines Fish and Game Club, the Dalhousie Yacht Club and the Port Dalhousie Pier Marina.

The piers recently underwent a $28-million renovation to maintain their safety.

“The completion of the Port Dalhousie piers and harbour rehabilitation is one of Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s largest projects ever,” said Chris Bittle, Member of Parliament for St. Catharines, and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage.

Mayor Walter Sendzik said the city is committed to ensuring the lakeside assets are not only maintained but protected now and into the future.