In the late 1980s we were retained by George Killy, president of Lakeland Mills, to develop a landscape screen adjacent to the proposed realignment of River Road, (i.e. its present location.)
This section of River Road, at that time, was approximately 600 feet further west of the Nechako River and Cottonwood Island Park.
Mr. Killy, in his wisdom, could anticipate a more favourable decision from city staff and council to relocate River Road and the associated log storage yard closer to Cottonwood Island Park if motorists and park users could not view the 'less than attractive' industrial storage yard.
Council of the day approved the road relocation, partially based on the development of the landscape berm and dense conifer tree screen.
It is with disappointment and dismay that in the last few days, I noticed all lower tree branches of this once dense screen being removed to a height of seven to eight feet above ground.
River Road motorists, and more importantly Cottonwood Park users can now view under the tree canopy into the industrial yard diminishing the tranquil, natural character of Cottonwood Park.
It's a shame someone within Lakeland management did not understand and appreciate the value of this vegetative asset.
I can only hope that city council staff and/or Lakeland management will take action to rectify this situation.
Jay Lazzarin
Prince George
