Dear Editor,
We recently received a pamphlet in the mail outlining a future No. 2 Road multi-use pathway and intersection from Steveston Highway to London Road. We appreciate the City of Richmond letting us know about the improvements and making us aware of an open house where residents can share their views.
However, a concern we have with this process is why people weren’t invited during the early stages, when the city was creating plans for these and other new developments.
We would have appreciated the opportunity to voice our concerns about the rapid growth and development that has recently taken place along this roadway. As residents who live one block away from No. 2 Road and in close proximity to the Fraser River, we have frequently been faced with the ripping up of No. 2 Road and demolition of older homes to allow for new condos, town-homes and super-sized homes on agricultural land.
To add to the planned roadway and pathway changes, there are currently seven mega-homes being built and two that were recently constructed. Four condo developments were completed in the past two years and another one is under construction.
We wonder if there will ever be a time when No. 2 Road isn’t being dug up for yet another project and we can all simply walk, cycle and drive in peace.
We moved out to this beautiful part of Steveston/Richmond because of the proximity to farmland, with a rich and varied riparian population that promised some peace and quiet. The livability of this neighbourhood has plummeted in recent years and many of our long-time friends have moved out.
We wonder if the city is giving thought to developing communities in Richmond in a manner that is inclusive to all age groups and income levels.
The people who could benefit the most from improved sidewalks, cycle paths and access, are seniors with a limited income and mobility challenges.
We can’t imagine many seniors living in this neighbourhood of large and expensive single-family homes and condos that often sell for a million dollars and more.
It seems the city lacks an awareness of the increasing challenge of seniors finding affordable housing in Richmond.
Michael McLenaghen
RICHMOND
