The Steveston Island Dike project is part of the Richmond Flood Protection Program. The project will create a new dike that will protect the city, including the historic and bustling Steveston waterfront and harbour, from future flooding.
Why?
Climate change is driving significant changes that Richmond is preparing for. This includes at least 1 metre (3 feet) of sea level rise, along with more frequent and intense storms, rainfall and river flooding over the next 80 years.
Richmond’s existing dike network is built to withstand major flooding and is currently being upgraded to protect against future sea level rise.
What?
Recent studies and community engagement in Steveston determined that raising the existing perimeter dike would disrupt local businesses and leave community landmarks like the Gulf of Georgia Cannery vulnerable to flooding.
As an alternative long-term flood protection solution, Richmond is proposing the construction of a new dike around Steveston Island that would include a navigation gate to allow boat passage in and out of Steveston Harbour. Spanning from London Farm to Garry Point Park along Steveston Island (Shady Island), the new dike will work with the existing shoreline dike to provide enhanced flood protection while also preserving future development opportunities. A new wetland area will be constructed close to the London Farm end of the new system that will help enhance and expand important foreshore habitat.
How?
The
Steveston Island Dike is a multi-year project with additional design work and
approvals required before construction can begin. Over this spring and summer,
the City of Richmond is looking for community feedback on the project to
further inform preliminary design work.
Renderings of the proposed Steveston Island Dike
Ways to participate
There are various opportunities for residents to provide feedback on the Steveston Island Dike preliminary design project. This includes a variety of engagement events happening this spring for Steveston residents, businesses and visitors to the Steveston Harbour area. Here is how you can participate:
- IN-PERSON EVENTS
- Drop by scheduled events, including open houses and pop-up information booths in Steveston. There will also be presentations for Steveston businesses, including the marine and fishing sector. See event listings on the right side of this page.
- ANSWER OUR SURVEY QUESTIONS BELOW
- Tell us what you think about the Steveston Island Dike preliminary design project through the survey below.
- ADD A MARKER TO THE MAP
- Share some stories about your favourite places along the the dike.
City staff are looking forward to answering questions and compiling your feedback for the next design phase. Stay tuned for more ways to participate.
