A new survey conducted by municipal staff has provided more insight into the demand surrounding the much-discussed need for a new or better boat launch.
This was one of several findings in the District's newly-released Marine Access Survey, which was presented to council on April 12. The document provides a general overview of access to the town's waters, and the insights regarding the boat launch were one of the highlights.
The local boating community has been calling for either a new or improved boat launch on public land for some time now. Boaters complain that the current launch can no longer meet the community's current needs. They also say that it's on private land downtown, which means the amenity can be taken away.
"Using the survey results and interviews with the local grassroots boat launch committee, we've also prepared a boat launch situational report that you've seen that provides a snapshot of the current state of launching," said municipal planner Sarah McJannet. "We've had increasing demands on a private, unmanaged facility in the Mamquam Blind Channel."
McJannet noted that the respondents to the survey listed many issues with the existing facility.
"It sees both recreational and commercial use, currently motorized and non-motorized. It is in poor physical condition," she said. "There are title constraints and no tie-up floats, making launching very challenging. It has limited capacity and parking. Folks are experiencing frequent wait times, especially during peak periods. And there isn't currently an identified future long-term site for boat launching, which is a huge concern for folks in the community."
She said there is a desire for expanded capacity, such as a two-lane facility, which is common in other communities.
A number of the survey participants also indicated that they were willing to pay for boat launch or parking access.
McJannet said, according to the survey, that 30% of community users were willing to help foot the bill and 50% of businesses were willing to chip in money for the cause.
The wide-ranging survey had 344 respondents aged between 11 to 82.
About 78% were full-time residents and 76% owned housing.
When asked about interests, most indicated they were invested in sports and outdoor recreation and health and wellness. About half were interested in environmental causes, and about a third noted an interest in tourism.
People from local watersports and boating groups were well represented.
The greatest number of participants were part of the Squamish Windsports Society at 118; followed by the Squamish Yacht Club, which had 42 respondents. Other member affiliations include the Squamish Paddle Club with 23; and BC Sailing with 19 respondents.
"Moving forward, some of the top priorities for enhancement for boat launching are physical ramp improvements, as well as additional capacity as mentioned through an additional ramp and dedicated day and vehicle parking for overnight boaters," McJannet said.
Non-motorized watercraft users indicated they wanted either the oceanfront or the Spit as a future launching site.
On the other hand, businesses indicated they were interested in improving the current site at the east end of Vancouver Street. There was also equal interest in establishing a launch at Darrell Bay.
Council received the survey report for information, and staff are expected to start working on Stage 2 of the Marine Access Review, which will further explore waterfront access needs in the community.
