The White Rock Pier will receive a much-needed structural upgrade following an announcement by the Canadian Government Friday that will see $115,000 allocated to the improving the waterfront attraction.

The funds, announced by Russ Hiebert, MP for South Surrey-White Rock-Cloverdale on behalf of the minister of state for western economic diversification, comes as part of the federal Government's Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF).

"Here in White Rock, the pier is an important part of our community life where residents and visitors alike can share and experience this truly unique experience," said Hiebert.

"However, there is room for improvements, and so I'm pleased to announce that over $115,000 will be issued to upgrade the White Rock Pier."

According to Hiebert, the fund will be used to replace 11 of the pier's essential pillars and brace.

"This investment will serve to maintain and enhance the safety of the pier and promote the creation of jobs, growth and prosperity for our community," said Hiebert.

Coun. Louise Hutchinson, also acting mayor at the time, was happy

"We always welcome people who bring money to White Rock," she joked.

More seriously, Hutchinson praised the funding announcement, noting it would be a vital contribution to the safety to one of White Rock's most important attractions.

"The White Rock pier is the single most iconic structure in White Rock, it's very important to the identity of White Rock," said Hutchinson. "That, along with the big white rock, are the most identifying features (of the city). The pier is also very near and dear to the hearts of the people who both live and work in White Rock and it's a great recreational structure."

Hutchinson also noted that the pier would likely have to be closed during the replacement process, but said it was necessary for the safety of the public.

"Public safety is number one, this has to be done, it's not a question of should it be done, it has to be done," she said.

As for a timeline, city manager Dan Bottrill said the work would have to be put out to tender and city staff would be moving quickly to get that done.

"I really appreciate any time we have any opportunity to work with our senior levels of government and to help the city of white rock prosper and improve, particularly with our infrastructure," he said.

According to CIIF policy, the city has two years to use the funds before they expire.