The Port of Yarmouth is a major fishing hub and key point of entry for international vessels. The port’s assets and operations are managed by the Yarmouth Area Industrial Commission (YAIC), an organization comprising councillors appointed from the Town of Yarmouth, Municipality of the District of Yarmouth, and the Municipality of Argyle. Given the port’s exposure to aggressive weather conditions in the harbour, reliable assessment of its condition is critical. In order to evaluate the port’s assets, to ensure safety for traffic and end users, and to pursue funding for infrastructure development, the YAIC sought reliable, comprehensive assessment of the physical assets and safety of the port’s wharves.

SHM Canada was engaged to prepare a Physical Asset Condition and Evaluation of Old Government Wharf, Marginal Wharf, Lobster Rock Wharf, and associated decks, bridges, and causeways. Our team conducted a thorough visual investigation of the approach bridge and wharf structures, diving inspection of all structures, and core tests to assess concrete quality. We also coordinated geotechnical investigation with reliable subconsultants.

Based on our thorough inspection and geotechnical investigation, Class D construction cost estimates for each structure and a final inspection report were prepared. Recommendations for short-, medium-, and long-term remediation for the Lobster Rock approach bridge were also included. The client described the report as “easy to read, comprehensive in terms of analysis and options, well organized and [speaking] clearly to the deliverables that were requested in the RFQ,” and commissioned SHM Canada to carry out follow-up investigative tests, including geotechnical investigation of another structure.