I was just reading the latest issue of the Saanich News, which I look forward to every week. I have lived in the University Heights area for 43 years now and, despite a mobility issue, walk the area numerous times a week.
I watch all aspects of the 'redevelopment' of the property and agree we need more 'affordable' housing, as the rental prices as listed are beyond our ability financially. How does this assist with student housing or affordability? My spouse and I struggled through my university years, so little has changed. Our neighbourhood was once full of families and where children walked to school. Now it is mostly rental housing for students. Rooms in a house on our street rent for between $900 and $1,000 a month.
Saanich council is not listening to residents who have contributed to this community for decades. No one should be disrespected for voicing their opinion. I am not opposed to the redevelopment of the Saanich Works Yard, but the manner in which it was presented. This council simply does not want to engage with residents, as I have reached out to them many times over the years and heard nothing in response.
In particular, I have written them about issues around the 'walkability' of the University Heights area. I fear cyclists as well as motorists, as it seems I am invisible. Everyone is in a hurry to get where they are going, and few are slow when passing me on the residential street I walk to return home. Cyclists scare me as they seldom stop when I am crossing a street. They will swerve around me.
I cycled to university and work many years ago now, and was taught that the rules of the road are the same for vehicles and cyclists. I become anxious on sidewalks abutting bike lanes as cyclists and pedestrians cross over suddenly without warning. A Saanich engineer suggested I walk facing the cyclists and wear bright colours. I was more than offended by that discriminatory comment.
Coun. Colin Plant did an interview a couple of weeks ago from the development site across from University Heights, and when asked about the seemingly expensive rents, said it was thought that they would open up more affordable rentals in the area. Good luck with that.
Thomas Musgreave
Saanich
