Hazardous Materials Assessment, Abatement, and Complete Demolition of 81E Residential Structure in Alert Bay, British Columbia

Public Comment Period on Intent to Make a Determination
Hazardous Materials Assessment, Abatement, and Complete Demolition of 81E Residential Structure in Alert Bay, British Columbia

October 26, 2026 — The Department of National Defence must decide whether the proposed project is likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

To help inform this decision, the Department of National Defence is inviting comments from the public on the project and its potential effects on the environment. All comments received will be considered public. For more information, individuals should consult the Privacy Notice on the Registry website.

Written comments must be submitted by November 14, 2026 to:
Jordan Grootendorst, Environmental Technologist – Canadian Coast Guard – Marine and Civil Infrastructure
Mailing Address:  25 Huron Street
Victoria, BC, V8V 4V9
E-mail:  jordan.grootendorst@canada.ca

The Proposed Project

The Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) has proposed a project. The Alert Bay Marine Communications and Traffic Services (MCTS) operations building was constructed in the 1980s and provided communication and traffic services for the marine community and for the benefit of the public at large to ensure: safety of life at sea; protection of the environment; efficient movement of shipping; and accurate marine information. The building has been unoccupied by the CCG for many years and used by members of the local ‘Namgis First Nation until recently. The building has been condemned due to ongoing water ingress leading to the degradation of the 2-storey wood framed building, causing structural integrity concerns. As a temporary safety measure the East side of the building has been shored to allow access to certified personnel.

The Work will involve:

• Removal and disposal of all building contents, including but not limited to asbestos and lead containing materials. Removal activities will be performed by appropriately trained personnel and in accordance with the requirements of applicable federal and provincial regulations and/or guidelines.
• Safe demolition and removal of the entire structure
• Removal of the foundation systems and below-grade components
• Disconnection and removal of all associated utilities/services
• Restoring the site to match adjacent ground conditions and grade
• Removal and reinstallation of new fencing as specified.
• Repairing any damage to adjacent materials or property caused by the demolition process.