Dear Editor,
I just returned from my usual walk through Steveston Village, and was very disappointed to see that the changes to the traffic pattern for B.C. Day weekend were still in place — several days later! I was under the impression (from an item in July 30th’s Richmond News) that this change was an experiment for the holiday weekend only. However, I have since discovered, to my horror, that it will remain in place until Sept. 7. The arrows painted on the road, as well as the signage, certainly look quite permanent to me.
I can only hope the local merchants (who will be severely impacted by this) were thoroughly briefed and consulted before this drastic change was made. I know for certain that we, as local residents, were not consulted at all, and it has had a huge, negative effect on the way in which we can visit and enjoy the village. As one letter-writer mentioned in Aug. 6th’s News, it was so off-putting, he just turned around and drove away. Now, how is that for business?
I specifically asked one of the store owners on Moncton what she thought of this traffic change, and she was very explicit, expressing her deep concern and disappointment, and she is not alone. And as for simplifying and easing traffic flow for pedestrians and cyclists, think again, City Hall. You have just made it that much more confusing and frustrating, and I can only think this will lead to more accidents.
When can we expect our village to go back to normal? It was working very well before “the powers that be” came up with this idea. They likely don’t live or work in the village, or have tried to do business there recently. Hopefully, this letter will enlighten them.
Carlie Holland
RICHMOND
