Completion of the Crystal Beach Paver Project a stone’s throw away

Shovels will finally hit the ground in front of the Crystal Beach sign this October after long delays.

The paver stone project, launched by the Crystal Beach Business Improvement Area (BIA) and the Ridgeway-Crystal Beach Kin Club in 2024, will replace dirt and mulch with engraved stones honouring local families and businesses.

The plan aims to improve accessibility and create a lasting community landmark.

Robin Bannerman, owner of Crystal Ball Cafe and a member of the BIA, said delays came down to the challenges of volunteer-driven projects.

“It just didn’t roll out as elegantly as we had anticipated,” Bannerman told Fort Erie Radio this week.

“That being said, it is happening for whatever paver stones have been purchased because we don’t want to hold on to people’s money any longer,” she added. “We want to make sure that it’s signed, sealed, and delivered.”

The project will add a hardscape surface around the brightly coloured Crystal Beach sign, installed at the Bay Beach entrance in 2023. Once complete, it will give visitors a smoother path to take photos at one of the town’s most popular landmarks.

The idea drew inspiration from a Lions Club project at Bay Beach nearly a decade ago, when pavers created a commemorative pathway. That earlier effort left many residents wishing they had taken part.

“If we could do interlock, honour people, honour their families, honour legacy and make a few duckets on the side, that would be a win-win for everybody,” said Bannerman.

Nearly 100 paver stones have already been purchased, according to Bannerman, about half of the original goal. Each stone measures 12 by 12 inches and costs $299, with an option to add a logo for $50 more. The groups hope sales will continue into a possible second phase.

Construction is scheduled to begin mid-October, with engraved pavers installed in front of the sign. The Kin Club will receive funds raised, which will in turn support local initiatives.

Residents can still buy stones, and the BIA is continuing to look for volunteers to help with beautification efforts across Crystal Beach.

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