Since the kerfuffle of the bus transfer station proposal at Foothills and 18th Avenue, I have lost some respect of the people guiding our city.
The latest I call "Three times lucky!"
Have a look at this photo, which shows the entrance of the Ginter's path at Foothills and 18th Ave.
After the city build the path, they erected signs stating the path was for walkers, cyclists and horse and riders, but not for motorized vehicles. It did not take long and they built the big gate (painted grey!), which spanned the whole path. Shortly after complaints were heard, as people on wheelchairs , with walkers or others with walking difficulties, were unable to go or wheel over, under or around the gate.
There was no foresight by the city so the city came and opened all five gates (perhaps even seven as there are two gates in the centre of Ginter's park and locked them so they could not be closed!
OK, peace was established. To me it seems the city was not satisfied, as people could use the path with their vehicles. I have never seen the public driving on these parts but I guess, they could.
Then the city came with their second solution - they installed a post in the middle of the path. Now the people on bicycles, horses etc could still use the path, but no motor cars
could enter (motorcycles, yes!).
Now the third solution!
I was surprised a couple of weeks ago when these centre posts disappeared as they seemed to function alright.
Now the City has installed its newest and latest solution - the yellow P-shaped posts.
They are locked but they can be opened.
I am sorry but I have to compare these gates with the bus transfer station. There is no evidence of any foresight, nor planning, just the desire to keep the motor guys out of the Ginter's path.
I make use of these pathway and trails five to six times a week and except for city trucks I have never seen any other vehicles using the system.
I am concerned that the City is wasting our money by jumping to solutions without thinking it through.
Am I too critical with regards to the people who run this city?
Thanks for listening.
Uwe Finger
Prince George
