Editor:
The walk along the promenade at Davis Bay is undoubtedly one of the jewels of the Sunshine Coast. Aside from the abundance of walkers in all sorts or weather, families play on the beaches, and some people simply sit in their vehicles and marvel at the scenery. And tourists love it. However, we all enjoy this spot but at some risk!
The length of the promenade is about one kilometre and over that distance there are only two painted crosswalks. Of those two crosswalks, there is nothing but a small sign along the highway and one has some overhead lights at night, which do not begin to be an effective way to stop traffic. Compare these crosswalks to the one at Brookman Park by the Chapman Creek bridge where pedestrians can activate flashing lights which almost immediately stop the traffic. With multiple businesses and residences on the upland side of the highway, the number of people crossing the highway is substantial and when they do cross, they are all at risk.
Also, due to the significant traffic along the highway, if you are travelling east to west it is unreasonable (as I tried one day) to park on the shoulder and expect to cross the highway without risking your well being. Consequently, cars are forced to either do a U turn or turn awkwardly into an angle park space. Neither of those options is a safe one.
And finally, to the promenade itself. First, it is far too narrow for a walkway, particularly if you meet a baby carriage or a dog walker or if you compare it to almost any other similar type of walkway. Second, have you ever wondered how many people have fallen off the path onto the inclined rock faced abutment? Suffice to say, if you did slip off the pathway at any of these locations you would be hurt and likely significantly. No guard rails, nothing, to prevent that from happening.
So where are our responsible safe-minded highway and municipal officials? At one of the busiest and most popular locations on the Coast for tourists, families and simply you and me, they have turned a blind eye to some very obvious safety concerns.
Fred Baines, Sechelt
