Dear Editor,
The current state of bus shelters in Richmond is totally inadequate for the ever growing population, especially at a time when people are being encouraged to use bus services.
Many bus stops have no shelters or benches whatsoever, while others are fully fitted with concrete pads, benches and shelter. On simple humanitarian grounds, all bus stops should be equally fitted. The question is, who is responsible for seeing that this is done?
At present, it appears that the City of Richmond has the lead role, working with TransLink and the Pattison Group. This is an impressive trinity with deep pockets, so fully equipped shelters should be the order of the day. What is holding up progress on this matter?
I am a daily bus rider and know what it is like to stand in the west coast rain and wind waiting, along with seniors with their walkers, and mothers with their strollers, for a bus to come.
Frustration is compounded when a fully loaded bus goes past, adding 20 more minutes of misery to the wait.
The City of Richmond must give higher priority to this matter. One suggestion would be that all developers, such as Onni, be required to pay into a bus shelter budget, based on residential units constructed. The shelters could be used to promote city events with tasteful signage for a captive audience to digest until the bus comes along.
Alan Johnson
Richmond
