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Harbour Quay tree planting won’t affect parking, tourists

No construction will occur over the Victoria Day long weekend
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Construction for tree planting at the Harbour Quay won’t affect Victoria Day weekend parking or tourist activity. KARLY BLATS PHOTO

Trees being planted in front of businesses at the Harbour Quay shouldn’t affect parking or tourist activity in the area for the May long weekend.

Staff at the City of Port Alberni are planting five trees beside the picnic tables that sit in front of businesses like the Aquarium, the Donut Shop and the Sugar Shak.

Rob Gaudreault, parks operations supervisor with the city, said no construction will occur over the Victoria Day weekend and full parking will be available.

Three of the five trees have already been planted and the remaining two should be complete next week.

Sugar Shak owner, Karmyn Akerley, said she was initially worried that the planting of the trees in front of her business could cause a mess for visitors to the area over the long weekend, but after speaking with city staff she was reassured the construction won’t cause issues.

“[City staff] worked all day yesterday and I wasn’t happy about it but it seems like they are trying to elevate it now because obviously it’s a busy weekend,” Akerley said.

“I don’t mind, it’s going to be a nice asset as long as its done at least enough that people can come out and enjoy it and we’re not blocked off.”

Donut Shop employee Janet Dame said she is under the impression all work will be completed in front of the business by end of day Friday.

“We’re happy about it. They’re just trying to beautify the place so these things happen,” Dame said.

According to data from the Port Alberni Visitor’s Centre, last May 1,817 visitors came to the Valley.

karly.blats@albernivalleynew.com

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A City of Port Alberni public works employee supervises work on new trees being planted in front of the marine building at Harbour Quay, Friday morning. TERESA BIRD PHOTO