Rise UP: Bold Ideas for St. Catharines 2026 PT 2– Sunset Beach

Back in 2015, my wife and I were deep in the chaos of renovations. We’d grab the three kids and head down the Walkers Creek trail for our escape to Municipal Beach. We caught 34 sunsets that summer, and a spark was lit. I started a campaign to rename that patch of sand “Sunset Beach,” and well, the rest is history.

 

Nine years later, the city has put $6.9 million into the place. New washrooms, trails, playgrounds, parking—the works. They hit it out of the ballpark. Honestly? It’s awesome.

 

But here’s the thing: we need the Region’s help now.

 

Right now, towing a boat down Arthur St. into Port Weller is a headache for residents and a bit of a scramble for boaters. It’s tight, it’s stressful, and it feels like we’re ignoring the obvious fix.

 

Here are two bold moves to make Sunset Beach even better:

 

• Open the Back Gate: Let’s get boater access to the Welland Canal Parkway, moving traffic behind the sanitation plant. It’s right there—a 90-metre fix that cuts out the mess on Arthur St.

 

• The One-Way Win: Or, keep it simple. Make it a one-way loop: In on Lombardy Ave, out on the Welland Canal Parkway. It’s a total no-brainer for safety and congestion.

 

• A Dog Beach: While we’re at it, let’s carve out a leash-free zone for the pups. It’s fun, it’s organized, and it’s a lifestyle win for our community.

 

To the future Regional Chair: this is your ticket to ride. You want to make a real, positive impact from day one? This is it.

 

Surf’s UP, St. Catharines!