05/22/2025
Meeting Synopsis β Wharf Construction & Ferry Update
-Date: Thursday, May 22, 2025
-Time: 11:40 a.m.
-Panelists: Danielle Barkhouse (MLA); David Hamilton (Wharf Construction Project Manager with Public Works); Donald Maillet (Executive Director of Highway Engineering and Construction with Public Works); Mitchell Conrad (Regional Director with Public Works); Michael Balsom (A/Director, Fleet Management with Public Works); and Jason Keddy (Captain in Charge)
-Attendees: Approximately 100 Big and Little Tancook community members and Chasidy Veinotte (District 10).
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Wharf Construction Update β Presented by David Hamilton
Current Progress:
-Big Tancook construction is in early stages, primarily focused on a temporary wharf to allow Pennecon to unload materials.
-The temporary wharf is nearly complete, with minor work left on the causeway.
-Additional cribs will be delivered from Blandford in the next two weeks. These will be placed beside the temporary wharf, which is also the future site of the permanent ferry terminal.
Construction Method:
-Cribs will be filled with rock and positioned to form the new wharf.
-The Blandford wharf is nearly complete, having started construction in September 2024.
Timeline & Design:
-Project is on track to be completed by December 2026. No early completion is expected.
-Design of the new infrastructure remains consistent with plans presented to the public in 2021.
Safety Reminder:
-The construction site is restricted, and safety barriers must be respected. Unauthorized entry is prohibited.
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Ferry Naming Campaign β Presented by Jason Keddy
A community-wide campaign has been launched to name the new Tancook Islands ferry.
Naming guidelines:
-Should reflect local or provincial significance.
-Must not replicate existing registered vessel names in Canada.
-Cannot use trademarks or business names.
-Each submission must include a brief rationale for the name.
-Deadline: July 18, 2025
-Submission Options: Submit names to the Tancook ferry captains or Jason Keddy.
-Decision Date: July 28, 2025
*Guidelines and Ballot attached*
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Community Q&A Highlights
Ferry & Transportation:
-No fare will be charged to use the new ferry.
-Tourists will be permitted to bring vehicles.
-New ferry schedule has not been finalized; will be determined after trial runs.
-School transportation: No formal discussions with the Department of Education yet. Options may include a small bus or children riding the ferry.
-No resident priority for ferry access, consistent with current policy.
-No cargo storage space will be available on the new ferry.
-Washrooms will be onboard; port-a-potties on the Blandford side.
-Ferry project costs (initially tendered at $10.6M) are not significantly over budget, and no overrun is expected for Big or Blandford.
Roads & Infrastructure:
-Big Tancook roads are a health and safety concern; the vehicle ferry will significantly improve access for road materials and maintenance.
-Pennecon is pausing construction for winter (starting December), but will continue storing equipment and materials on the island.
-Public Works has partnered with Pennecon to explore interim solutions for road work and winter safety, including gravel and dust suppression.
-A better salt spreader is needed on the island, and will be looked in to.
-Private grader operators cannot be hired; those interested should apply to the province.
-Road upgrade between Route 329 and the Blandford parking lot is planned.
-Wider two-lane road planned for loading/unloading on Big Tancook; congestion remains a concern.
-No new designated parking planned for Big Tancook, but parking may be permitted on the wharf per David Baker, Harbour Authority President.
Services & Amenities:
-MODL working on a wayfinding strategy and developing tourist information materials in partnership with the Rec Centre and residents.
-Discussions ongoing with Castle for Chester service access from Blandford. Other service access conversations are in progress, but this is not the responsibility of the Province.
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Little Tancook β Service and Infrastructure Discussion
-Current infrastructure is nearing end-of-life; service continuity is a priority.
-An interim service will be provided while permanent solutions are explored.
-A decision on permanent solutions is expected in the next 3β6 months; residents will be consulted.
-EHS access is a key concern β a meeting is scheduled to discuss requirements with Little Tancook residents for safe patient transport.
-Little Tancook will not be excluded from ferry service. Options are under development.
-40% population renewal on Little Tancook over the past 6 years highlights the need for investment.
-Treasury Board approval is required before moving forward.
Residents are encouraged to reach out to Danielle Barkhouse with concerns, questions, or suggestions at [email protected]
