Contractor selected for removal of abandoned railcars near Walton, Nova Scotia

The Fundy Ocean Research Centre for Energy (FORCE), working with the Province of Nova Scotia, has awarded a contract to Marine Recycling Corporation (MRC) for the removal and environmentally responsible disposal of four abandoned railcars near the mouth of the Walton River.

The contract follows a competitive Request for Proposals issued by FORCE in March. The railcars were part of an Occurrent Power (formerly Big Moon Power) tidal energy project that was never completed. They are now a navigational hazard and a concern for residents, and the Province has asked FORCE to oversee their safe removal.

Each railcar measures approximately 42 feet long, nine feet wide and 15 feet high. Constructed of steel and filled with concrete, each has an estimated dry weight of approximately 300 tonnes.

The work is expected to begin this month and be completed by fall, subject to weather, tidal conditions and final regulatory and operational requirements. The total project cost will be disclosed once final costs are confirmed.

MRC will be responsible for:

• Removing all four railcars
• Transporting and recycling or disposing of the recovered steel and concrete at approved facilities
• Clearing the surrounding area of debris and obstructions

FORCE will act as the Province’s project representative and will oversee the work to ensure compliance with applicable health, safety, environmental, engineering and regulatory requirements.

Contact:

Questions may be directed to: media@fundyforce.ca