Port Alberni’s iconic lighthouse will be getting an upgrade, thanks to funding from the Community Forest.
Each year, the Alberni Valley Community Forest Corporation holds back $10,000 from its annual dividends and gives this to a community organization, with the support of Port Alberni city council. This year, the Community Forest board is recommending that funds from 2023 go towards the Port Alberni Maritime Heritage Society.
The $10,000 will be used to upgrade the red and white lighthouse gallery at the Maritime Discovery Centre, on Harbour Road.
According to Jim Sears, board chair of the Community Forest Corporation, the lighthouse is “in dire need” of upgrades. The upgrades, which are expected to cost $85,000 in total, will also include new interpretive signage.
“The lighthouse is an integral part of the Alberni Valley waterfront and will be a part of the overall experience and complement the other improvements expected along the harbour area,” said Sears.
Port Alberni city council agreed during a regular meeting on Monday, Jan. 9 to approve this funding. The work on the lighthouse is expected to start later this year.
