The City of New Westminster is driving to the finish line with its master transportation plan.
City council has approved the draft final master transportation plan in principle and directed staff to consult with the public and stakeholders about the plan, which will guide the city’s plans for all modes of transportation for the next 25 years.
“It’s a job well done,” said Coun. Bill Harper. “It reflects more of a modern look at New Westminster, as far as its transportation issues.”
The plan, which has been in the works for nearly two years, includes topics such as creating a walkable city, comfortable bicycle facilities, attractive and convenient transit, great streets, managed roads, managed goods movement and livable neighbourhoods.
Next week, the city is holding two open houses to present the draft final plan: Tuesday, June 24 from 2:30 to 5 p.m. at Century House (presentation at 3:30 p.m.); and Thursday, June 25 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Sapperton Pensioners’ Hall, 318 Keary St. (presentations at 5 and 6:30 p.m.)
Given that transportation is such an important issue in New Westminster, Coun. Jonathan Cote said the city needed time to do it right. While there are no easy solutions to the challenges faced by the city, he said New Westminster is talking about how to deal with them.
Cote suggested a couple of changes he’d like to see incorporated into the final draft, such as changing the wording that suggested the city would accept no net increase of regional traffic unless it relates to safety. Citing the Bailey bridge as an example, he said that could be misinterpreted to justify an increase in capacity.
“I do have concerns that that could be misinterpreted,” he said.
Coun. Betty McIntosh said it’s helpful to get a draft of the plan, as changes can still be incorporated into the final product. She said the city welcomes input.
“Let us know. Our staff are really receptive,” she said. “It has been a really good process.”
