Crystal Beach subdivision is where the streets need new names
October 7, 2026 at 7:56 AM
There may be sand and wind near a new Crystal Beach subdivision, but not enough to convince councillors they can be used as inspiration for street names.
Council nixed a recommendation to name three private streets at a Rebstock Road subdivision as Niagara Beach Drive, Sailwind Drive, and Sandpoint Lane. Instead they’ll be asking the developers to come up with new options, and guiding them to a list of preapproved names that the Town believes better honours the community and its history.
“We have so many names that are reflective of our community on this list,” said Councillor George McDermott, as he and other councillors agreed with Mayor Wayne Redekop that the proposed names were a little too vanilla.
“I’m not sure how we end up with Niagara Beach Drive in the middle of Crystal Beach or Crystal Ridge area of town,” Redekop said. “The other, Sailwind. Okay, it’s windy. I don’t know if we’ll get any sails there. Sandpoint, maybe there’s sand in the playground, I’m not sure.”
The discussion came as councillors received the minutes of the September 2 street naming committee, which came with the recommendation to approve the three street names. One of the conditions of the draft approval of the development is to have the private roads being built named to the satisfaction of the Town.
The owners, M5V Inc. and consultants Niagara Planning Group, submitted the proposed names.
Developers are encouraged to select street names that “have a historical, cultural, social and/or environmental reference,” the Town’s street naming policy suggests. Staff maintain a list of preapproved names that fit those recommendations.
“I know, for better or worse, we seem to live in a time where names tend to be bland because there’s no risk to them,” said Councillor Nick Dubanow. “But I’m a big believer in supporting the history of this community, the people who built this community, the natural heritage and built heritage.”
Staff will now request a new set of names from the developer, which will come back for council approval. The subdivision is a 90-unit townhouse build at at 0-15850 Rebstock Road.
More than a pitch: Soccer club eyes sports dome
Councillors struggle with church heritage designation plans
Wonky lot layouts force Fort Erie to look at new yard definitions
About The Author
Luke Edwards
Luke Edwards is a longtime Niagara community journalist who has covered a variety of beats, including business, agriculture, the wine industry and politics. When not writing, there's a good chance he can be found at a baseball diamond or curling rink.
Stay Informed