A “Marine Park” could be built on the waterfront in Steveston as a draw for the commercial fishing industry across the Lower Mainland.
Although just at the concept stage, Steveston Harbour Authority envisages a one-stop shop at the foot of 6th and 7th avenues for all supplies and services related to the industry.
Currently, the site where the Marine Park may go is zoned for “light industrial,” with a mish-mash of a few commercial fishing related businesses.
It’s yet another indication of the rapidly changing times in the village, with recent news of the historic Steveston Hotel and Buck and Ear sold to a pub/restaurant chain and Steveston Marine Hardware applying to rezone as a microbrewery.
Bob Baziuk, Steveston Harbour Authority (SHA) general manager, said the Marine Park is one of the many options the SHA board is currently examining.
“It’s just a general concept right now. The idea is for a Marine Park to make Steveston, and the area down there, a hub for the commercial fishing community,” said Baziuk.
“It’s months away to be fair (before any decision); as the board only meets about six times a year.
“But it’s going to be discussed sometime this month, I believe; some more research is going to go into it for sure.”
The park, said Baziuk, will be for anyone involved in the commercial fishing business.
“There could be all kinds of buildings down there, consolidating all the marine suppliers. It’s too early to say what size or scope the park might be; it’s all just a concept right now.”
At the moment, observed Baziuk, there’s a few net stores scattered around the Lower Mainland, along with other related suppliers.
“We have to pitch it just right though, so we won’t be rushing into anything,” he added.
“We’ll be looking to do the right thing in accordance with our head lease to ensure Steveston Harbour’s future as a fishing harbour.”
In the last few weeks, the News has reported how the landmark Steveston Hotel and Buck and Ear pub is set for possibly a massive makeover after being bought by restaurant/pub chain, the Joseph Richard Group, which is best known for its string of Town Hall pubs across the Lower Mainland.
And Steveston Marine Hardware’s owner, Iqbal Ladha, is looking into turning his 74-year-old business on Moncton Street into a microbrewery or winery, complete with tasting rooms.
