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LETTER: Homemade bridge enhances visit to North Saanich park

Resident's efforts have allowed his neighbours to enjoy the beauty of Reay Creek
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Chris Maier with his dogs Kayla and Wally on the footbridge.

I am writing supporting the lovely little rock bridge Chris Maier built. I was one of those people who formerly tried to cross Reay Creek on old branches and logs. Chris has cleared out trails through a neglected piece of forest at the south end of Reay Creek. This has allowed his neighbours to take their dogs on a beautiful looping nature walk steeped in history and spirit. Chris has also cleaned up all the garbage left by homeless people living in this area, making it safe for single women like myself to walk there every day.

I understand that Chris has done hundreds of hours of volunteer work in this area on his own initiative. The rest of Reay Creek has been left in a mess and all the fallen trees, branches, and garbage are a huge fire risk. Chris has even supplied a bucket for people using the new large bridge who throw their dog poop bags into the trees and Reay Creek.

I sincerely hope North Saanich and/or Sidney Parks will incorporate this lovely little bridge into this magical spot. How rare it is to have a refuge like this to escape our challenging world. Thank you, Chris Maier, for doing all this work for your neighbours.

Jillian Smyth

Sidney