Editor:
Traffic calming measures work! The recent lane closures due to the Patullo Bridge replacement project rendered our downtown from a through-traffic gridlock into a beautiful and safely walkable area.
As a driver, I have not noticed any negative impact on the rush hour gridlock on Royal or First, which was to be expected. The lack of traffic in the downtown provides ease of access for parents to pick up their kids from Qayqayt and the many daycares without getting stuck in through traffic.
As a cyclist, my almost daily close calls on Columbia are now zero. Before, I would get rushed drivers turning right without looking and almost clipping me or my young children who ride themselves to school at ages five and seven. I witnessed many drivers overtaking on the right over the bike lane and parking lots when they were behind someone obeying the speed limit of 30 km/h.
It is a no-brainer to make the traffic calming permanent. This would bring in much-needed downtown revitalization. Access to businesses without worrying about getting stuck in traffic and safe passage for all vulnerable road users. Every New West citizen would benefit, and no one would be excluded.
Jens Vent-Schmidt
📢 SOUND OFF: Have you noticed changes to traffic in your neighbourhood because of Pattullo Bridge construction? What kinds of changes would you like to see the city make to roads? Do you have ideas for making it easier to get around New West? Let us know — send us a letter.
