Non-motorized watercrafts will now be rented at area beaches, including Marie Curtis Park.
Some South Etobicoke beach lovers are complaining about large shipping containers popping up as watercraft businesses on area beaches, including Marie Curtis Park.
They claim the eyesore containers block access and views of the beach and want to see them moved to the paved, parking lot area of parks.
City Council last November adopted a ‘Year-round Motorized Watercraft Storage Pilot,’ in which non-motorized watercraft and rental services will be allowed on some beaches.
Witnesses have reported four of the containers are now on the beache of Sir Casimir Gzowski Park, at 1751 Lake Shore Blvd. W., and one on Marie Curtis Park.
Some area residents complain the large shipping containers for use by vendors are an eyesore that blocks access of the beach.
The big, square metal containers permits the year-round storage of the watercraft equipment which will be available for rent at market rates negotiated by Park, Forestry and Recreation officials.
The Toronto watercraft companies, providing they support environmental concerns, will be offered a three year contract and can renew for an additional year, according to a City report.
The companies will from June to September yearly be able to rent paddle boards, sail boards, kayaks and other non-motorized flotation vehicles; in addition to providing lessons and public storage of personal crafts, according to the City.
Staff said some operators, including Toronto SUP & Kayak Inc., have made requests for year-round storage of containers at sites.
A temporary dock set up to accommodate watercraft rentals and lessons by vendors.
“This would allow licensees to keep storage containers in place, causing less disruption to surrounding areas, and continuity of storage for customers,” the report stated, adding the rentals will only be available in certain locations based on terrain.
Area resident Stefanie Meligrana called the containers grotesque and that they be moved to the paved parking lot area.
“Our parks are our most precious waterfront access to the public,” she said. “Our beaches are now used for people to make a profit.”
Meligrana said the containers block access to the beach and water safety devices.
One of the large containers to be used for storage and watercraft rentals on some City beaches.
“I am not against encouraging people to use boats or other non-motorized watercrafts, however the location of these containers on the beach is not fair to the public,” she complained. “These containers are in a flood zone and are horrible to look at and sets a precedent.”
The pilot project with watercraft vendors will run until October and then pack up until next summer.