To the Editor,
The late Charlie Haggard, as a private citizen, put forward the “Horne Lake” connector proposal as an alternative highway route out of the valley. This suggestion continues to simmer. Mr. Jim Rhodes has suggested an alternative route to the cities $14.6 million dollar proposal for a second crossing. His suggestion, as detailed in The News, (Oct. 2) deserves serious consideration.
There are other immediate advantages to Rhode’s proposal besides cost. Traffic lights already exist at Cherry Creek and Johnston. This northern exit point better serves the mall and the residential areas that would most benefit from a second crossing.
I believe, having hiked the trails in the area of the loop route he proposes, that a significant real estate opportunity would emerge on the north side of Roger Creek. This route eliminates a major problem, (the steep climb into and out of the Roger Creek gorge) for walkers and cyclists.
This proposal facilitates easy trail connection to the existing popular Roger Creek trail network. And finally, Rhode’s proposal is an excellent compromise for those favouring a 21st Street crossing.
The civic election referendum proposal is, in my opinion, meant to fail. Thus, Rhodes’ second crossing proposal shouldn’t just be under debate; it should be given very serious consideration. His time spent formulating this proposal is much appreciated.
T. Lyman Jardin,
Port Alberni