Thunder Bay City Council to Discuss Decommissioning the Whalen Tugboat
According to Halvorsen, moving the tugboat would require a heavy-lift barge—the same type used when the Whalen was recovered after taking on water.
The report to the council estimates that relocating the boat would cost between $700,000 and $900,000. Creating a dive site or displaying the vessel on land would be even more expensive, with costs ranging from $1.4 million to $1.8 million.
“Our recommendation is to begin the recycling process on-site and preserve select pieces for future display,” Halvorsen said. The report estimates this option would cost around $540,000.
The preserved pieces would likely include the bridge, stack, and possibly some railings. Halvorsen noted that the city has identified a potential location for a future historical display dedicated to the James Whalen tug.
Meanwhile, the report highlights ongoing challenges in maintaining and displaying the VIA train in Kam River Heritage Park.
“Considering the difficulties the park has faced in recent years, along with the removal of the James Whalen tug and increased encampment activity on the site, administration recommends redefining the park’s plan and service levels to better serve the community,” the report states. As part of this process, an expression of interest would be issued to the public regarding the future of the VIA train, helping guide decisions on its relocation or disposal.
“Removing these heritage assets will allow administration to focus on leveraging the park’s natural privacy and waterfront access to better serve the community in more meaningful ways,” the report concludes.
