Hundreds gathered today, Saturday September 14, to mark a place in Nelson’s history and celebrate the official opening of Nelson’s award-winning new pier at the end of Hall Street.
Mayor Janice Morrison opened the proceedings with an acknowledgement to the significance of the pier project.
“Today marks the culmination of Nelson’s first major multi-year investment in the downtown waterfront since the original revitalization project in the mid-1980s.” said Mayor Morrison.
Nelson’s stores to shores downtown waterfront revitalization project which includes 2,350 feet, or about three quarters of a mile, has stretched across five different elected councils, three different mayors, and approximately 13 years.
“By 2019, discussions about renewing the pier began, recognizing its importance as the final terminus of the stores to shores vision,” said Mayor Morrison.
“In 2022, work began to fully revitalize this historic landmark, ensuring it remains a central part of our community for generations to come.”
“Together, we are gathered here, celebrating the future while preserving Nelson’s rich history.”
The history of Nelson’s shorefront
According to guest speaker, Joy Barrett, the City’s Cultural Development Officer, Nelson’s first pier was built in 1892, 132 years ago, and served as a gateway on the Kootenay Lake for passengers and trade.
Since then, Nelson’s waterfront blossomed, welcoming the Nelson Boat Club in 1896, changing to Nelson Rowing Club in 1912.
“Nelson’s waterfront soon welcomed a number of major rowing regattas, with spectators coming from near and far. to cheer for a flurry of colorful sailboats racing up and down Kootenay Lake.” said Barrett.
“In 1903, the Kootenay Launch Club formed the first motorboat club of its kind in Canada.”
“Their annual motorboat regatta was a huge success running into the 1950s. The roar of the boats was accompanied by the cheers of the crowds gathered for the exhilarating spectacle.”
“The speed queen of Kootenay Lake, our own ladybird, powered by a World War One Liberty aircraft engine, was often the star of the show and we look forward to soon welcoming her back to her new enclosure once its modifications are complete.”
“In 1947, the pier was purposely destroyed by underwater dynamite charges and rebuilt and in 1957 we saw the final voyage of the SS Moyie, the last of the Kootenay Sternwheelers.”
“In 1986, a new 216-foot wharf was constructed and now, almost 40 years later, we gather here today to welcome the new Hall Street Pier.”
“The entrance to a gateway directly connecting the waterfront to Nelson’s thriving new, or to Nelson’s thriving downtown core.”
“Offering a place to recreate, celebrate, and contemplate, the pier provides a gathering space for our community, strengthening Nelson’s long-standing bond with our beautiful waterfront.”
Architect Matthew Stanley of Stanley Office of Architecture addressed the ceremony, proud of the final outcome and place it will take in Nelson’s community.
“In the short amount of time that has been open, I’ve seen swimmers, dancers, slackliners, tourists and locals, and it’s been really amazing to see this site starting to do what we always imagined it could do.” said Stanley.
Central designer, Marc Boutin, director of design development for MBAC applauded Nelson City Council’s vision to investing in a public space.
“We meet neighbors here and friends here and family members and people that come from out of town. We bring them here and we’re enjoying what Nelson is about and its culture.” said Boutin.
“It’s become the place where people come and build community.”
The project was a culmination of financial support from the Columbia Basin Trust $500,000 grant and $1 million from the BC Government through the Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure Program.
“Columbia Basin Trust, we’re proud to support this project. By working with local leaders and partners, we help create a space that will enhance community for generations.” said Patrick Checknita, Columbia Basin Trust.
“This pier, with its many possible uses, adds another amenity to Nelson, enhancing the waterfront for locals and visitors alike. It’s more than just a structure. It is a symbol of Nelson’s commitment to blending history, culture, and nature in ways that build resilience and create opportunities.”
MLA Brittny Anderson, who was a councillor with the City of Nelson when the pier project was first launched, gave an emotional speech on the project’s completion.
“This will be a place that is going to be as iconic as the Orange Bridge. It is going to have so many memories for our community and I’m just really proud that we all came together.” said Anderson.
The ribbon cutting
Following formalities, those involved in the project and the community were invited to take part in the official ribbon cutting by Mayor Morrison and former Mayor John Dooley, before walking out to enjoy the new pier.
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