North Shore Park Rehabilitation
After significant storm damage in September 2021 and December 2022, the Town now has an opportunity to reimagine and rehabilitate North Shore Park in Port Elgin.
Following principles and plans set out in the Town's Waterfront Master Plan, Council is considering several options. One of those options is bringing back the historic Port Elgin & North Shore Park Train.
Storm Damage
On September 7, 2021, a major wind storm caused considerable damage to North Shore Park. The storm took out hundreds of trees, ripping up the surrounding turf, as well as damaging trails, washrooms, and amenities.
These storms forced the Town to remove the damaged trees along with hazardous debris. A winter storm over Christmas 2022 caused more damage; arborists say this is due to a weakened tree canopy and root system from the initial storm, and that more damage is likely.
Crews cleaned up much of the damage after the initial storm, and then again this spring. The Town is looking at several landscaping and tree planting options to replace the lost vegetation.
Public Consultation
To ensure the park is restored in a coordinated and integrated manner, the Town put further work on hold until it could consult with the public, including on the possible return of the historic Port Elgin and North Shore Park Train.
On the evening of July 7, 2022, members of the public attended a meeting at the park's pavilion, where they had the opportunity to provide input into the park's look, as well as how to best serve residents and visitors. Citizens also had the opportunity to provide further comment online.
Citizens who attended the engagement provided several important suggestions, including the restoration of the park's vegetation, along with a reorganization of the park for better use by residents and visitors. You can read the full comments from that public engagement in the report on August 8, 2022 (Committee of the Whole, Item 9.2).
Historic Port Elgin & North Shore Park Steam Train
In late 2021, Mr. Scott Pearson reached out to Town staff to say he was interested in bringing the original steam train back to North Shore Park. Council members heard Mr. Pearson's proposal on May 9, 2022 (Committee of Whole meeting, Item 7.2.1). Mr. Pearson outlined his vision to incorporate the original steam train as part of North Shore Park's restoration. Council directed staff to continue discussions with Mr. Pearson about the project and to include the proposal in the community consultation process mentioned above.
On April 12, 2023, Mr. Pearson returned to the Committee with a revised proposal that contains considerable background research including an updated land survey, legal review, and consultation with government agencies. Mr. Pearson has considered options to integrate the train into the North Shore Park, along with additional amenities to make the project financially sustainable.
Council members voted to support the incorporation of the train into the park's new design in principle. However, they do want additional public feedback on the proposal. The Town has included a staff report, along with Mr. Pearson's proposal and presentation for the public to view. Residents can also view the April 11th Committee of the Whole meeting (discussion begins at 1:48:25).
Public Vote on Steam Train Proposal
The Town is asking the public to vote on the return of the historic train, along with the additional amenities and the supporting plans. Residents are asked to look at the proposal and reports posted above and then respond to the following survey on whether or not they support the project as presented. Respondents will also find space to provide brief comments.