Boaters, swimmers and sunbathers will soon be enjoying the new docks at Tilley Memorial Park in Canal Flats.

The project includes three new 20 foot docks, refurbishing of the two existing docks and a small angled dock. The project was awarded to Wasa’s Rascal Millwork, at a cost of $26,557.75 plus GST by Canal Flats Council.

Council opted to add on $7,600 to the original cost for composite dock material instead of wood.

Rascal Millwork Dock Systems owner Dale Gray says the decking material has multiple benefits. It allows light through so it is good for the fish underneath, it has nice traction, and it lasts much longer than wood decking.

Included in Rascal Millwork’s quote was delivery and installation. Gray says they hope to get the docks installed within the next couple weeks. However, Mayor Ute Juras remarked in a follow-up interview that the final layout for the docks does still need to be approved by Council.

At the Council meeting, held Monday, May 8, Councillor Paul Marcil stated the new docks should help speed up the process for people launching their boats as there will be more room for boats to park, meaning the next vehicle in line to launch does not have to wait as long for a spot to open up on the dock.

“It should certainly speed up,” said Paul Marcil. “This is a very good investment.”

The dock project is being paid for through a Canada 150 Grant of $30,000. Council will be looking at how to spend the remaining $4,000.

Tilley Memorial Park will also be getting new washrooms in time for Canada Day. A report to Council confirmed that the pit toilet was demolished and the area for the new washrooms has been excavated and approved. Footings were completed as well as the frost wall, with backfill and plumbing expected some time in May.