Noise complaints continue to be a daily occurrence at the Inn at the Quay, according to the hotel’s general manager.
Kathy MacKerricher told the Record staff receive up to 10 negative comments a day about the pile driving happening next door, where Bosa Properties’ RiverSky project is taking shape.
“It’s definitely a challenge,” she said. “You’re seeing some negativity on TripAdvisor, on Google, some on social media.”
MacKerricher added the hotel has had to dole out a “fair amount” of compensation.
The city’s construction noise bylaw states “permitted hours” are anytime between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. on weekdays and Saturdays, with Sundays and other holidays excluded.
“There’s over 600 piles that they’re driving. Originally, it was supposed to be happening January through April, which is traditionally corporate season. Our guests leave in the morning and come back at the end of the day, so it wouldn’t have had the impact it’s had during peak summer months,” MacKerricher explained. “They were delayed for a couple reasons. You don’t really know what’s in the earth and down under there until you get to it.”
Despite the noise, the hotel manager said she understands it’s a job that must get done and she’s been working closely with Bosa. The developer has been very accommodating when it comes to weddings that were already on the books, she noted.
In an emailed statement, Daryl Simpson, the company’s vice-president, said his team has been trying to minimize disruption wherever possible.
“Unfortunately, this process is a construction reality, but we expect this stage to be complete by October as our construction team is working hard to complete this phase as quickly as possible. We appreciate the patience from our New West community,” the email read.
Until then, MacKerricher said a note apologizing for the inconvenience has been placed in each room.
“We just carry on with our smiles on our face and business is as usual,” she said.
