Editor:
In the Jan. 28 Coast Reporter, I was dismayed to read the headline “No Trail Bay Waterfront Boulevard upgrades for now.” As a Sechelt resident that walks the Boulevard almost daily, I cannot believe the Sechelt Council’s lack of commitment on this project.
The Boulevard that goes from Friendship Park at the foot of Wharf Ave. to Snickett Park at the foot of Schorncliffe Ave. is one of the best assets that Sechelt has. Hundreds of residents and visitors use this waterfront walk to observe the whales, dolphins, sea lions, seals, otters, eagles, loons and many other birds. It is a very popular pet-walking area and is accessible for bikes, walkers, wheel chairs, mobility scooters and any form of mobility.
The one problem is vehicular traffic that has access from the foot of Trail Ave. to the foot of Ocean Ave.
Pedestrians and other users have to dodge these vehicles and breathe in their exhaust as vehicle drivers idle to keep warm and smoke in their vehicles with their windows open to ensure the walkers get the full benefit of their smoke while they get fresh air from the ocean breeze.
Two signs have been added to say no smoking and idle free zone, however nobody enforces it, though council may feel better being able to say that they are posted.
If these vehicle drivers are concerned for their health or the health of others, they should park nearby and walk the Boulevard like the rest of the users.
Since the current council does not seem to want to deal with this issue, I would like to see it as an election issue this fall so that we can vote in a council that will make the Boulevard a vehicle free zone that the majority of residents and visitors can enjoy forever.
Brian Hulme, Sechelt
