Shoreline protection planned for Murchison Lane
Press Release
January 30, 2026
A new shoreline protection project on Murchison Lane in Charlottetown will improve trail safety, protect access to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH), and safeguard hospital lands by reducing coastal erosion and flooding.
Coastal erosion and flooding in the area have increased the risk to the road and the nearby shoreline trail, which is used by residents as well as QEH patients, visitors and staff.
“By strengthening the shoreline now, we’re improving safety and building resiliency for the future. Communities across the province are facing increasing challenges from coastal erosion and flooding. We’re using an approach that combines nature-based solutions with engineered protection, while taking proactive steps to address a changing climate.”
-Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Ernie Hudson
Work will take place in two phases. In early February, crews will install 350 linear meters of stone bank protection along the most vulnerable sections of cliff beside the shoreline trail.
In the winter of 2026–27, offshore stone sills will be added at strategic locations to stabilize and foster additional growth of existing salt marsh plants, which will reduce onshore wave impacts. Vegetated and forested areas along the bluff will also be restored.
The effort will protect the road and trail while also helping restore the nearby salt marsh. Salt marshes function as a natural buffer, absorbing wave action and reducing shore erosion.
This project aligns with findings from the province’s State of the Coast report, which highlights coastal erosion and flooding as growing risks to roads, trails, and other infrastructure. It will also provide the background information needed to develop policies that support better coastal management.
Work is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
Watch a video about the project on YouTube.
Media contact:
Dan Hodgson
Department of Transportation and Infrastructure
902-218-4069
danmhodgson@gov.pe.ca
ILR5
