Editor:
I note with dismay the recent comments of Roberts Creek Area D director Andreas Tize opposing the construction of a real highway to serve the needs of Coast residents (“Creek director dismisses SC101’s highway proposal,” May 24). Being a long-time resident of Roberts Creek, I believe that Mr. Tize has failed to consider the many advantages that a legitimate highway would bring to our region and specifically to our small community in the Creek.
Construction of a true highway has been studied and recommended by various authorities for over 30 years. To be built in the vicinity of the power lines, it will result in many advantages to our region, including the following:
1. The great majority of ferry traffic would be able to reach Sechelt in 15 minutes.
2. The current road (aka the “highway”) would revert to being a local “parkway” for recreational and local use.
3. Safety for children, youth, elders and families would be greatly enhanced.
4. Reliability of emergency services would be increased dramatically.
5. Access to nature in the local mountainous area would be much easier.
6. A firebreak would be created, something increasingly needed in Coast drought conditions
I suspect that similar objections to the Upper Levels Highway on the North Shore were voiced back in the mid-60s. However, if one now looks at how that corridor serves the community for transport, recreation services, and commuting needs, it has become a real community asset.
I hope Mr. Tize and other policy makers will look beyond what he has termed “a different feel in our [Roberts Creek] community” and consider the public good of our broader coastal community.
I must add that I do not feel the stance taken by director Tize accurately represents the views and needs of most residents of Roberts Creek, including those like me, who live above the current “Road 101.”
Dr. Gary Pennington, Roberts Creek
