It may be $100,000 more expensive, but the reasons are good ones. That's from RM of Portage la Prairie reeve Kam Blight referring to the winning bid cost for rebuilding the Delta Beach breakwater at the boat channel in Lake Manitoba, compared to the cost presented by the lowest bidder.

"Council took a look at recommendations brought forth by our administration to go with the second lowest tender -- someone who has a lot of experience working with projects like this, which is the Delta Breakwater structure out in Lake Manitoba."

Blight explains environmental issues and factors taken into consideration helped make their decision. He adds council's worked with this particular company on several other projects, which fit well with administration's recommendation. Disaster Financial Assistance is paying for the project, but Blight adds council's always mindful they're spending taxpayer dollars, and want to get the most of any costs paid for.

The breakwater outlet is located to the east of Delta Beach Campground and PR240. It is the inlet channel to the Marsh. The channel is used to regulate water levels and to allow safe commuting of small watercrafts to and from Lake Manitoba. 

INSPECTION

The following items were noted as damage to the site:

  • The timber and steel breakwater structure was completely removed on the east side of the channel and significantly damaged on the west side.
  • The dike surrounding the area has been partially washed away and is no longer at the original elevation.
  • Riprap protecting the dike is still present but has been partially washed away.

PROPOSED REPAIRS

  • Reconstruct the breakwater wall structure.  The reconstruction includes a sheet pile wall with riprap embankment armoring and a concrete coping is proposed as the replacement structure.  To install the sheet piles, a temporary access roadway is required. 
  • Remove existing riprap and raise the existing dike to the original elevation to tie into the surrounding areas.
  • Place new riprap embankment protection, sized to absorb water energy from wind-induced wave action.
  • Restore landscaping within the protected area of the breakwater/diversion channel due to flood and construction damage.

Breakwater inlet (submitted photo)