To the Editor,
High-density housing developments do not belong in low-density neighbourhoods. Period.
Having lived in a high-density neighbourhood in the Lower Mainland, I can say the drawbacks far outweigh the benefits. The only ones, in fact, who actually benefit from such developments are the owners of the land and the developers.
Once a high-density housing complex is built, the neighbourhood immediately faces an increase in noise pollution, parking problems, traffic and pedestrian safety issues, and even an increase in crime.
A high-density housing complex in a low-density housing neighbourhood is even more concerning for the residents as their green space is eliminated and the overall living satisfaction decreases; the unit simply does not blend well in the existing neighbourhood.
I empathize with the current residents between Fourth and Fifth Avenue who are currently facing a development of 112 units, but sadly I feel their very real concerns will be disregarded. The power in this community belongs to the developers whose agenda will be pushed and passed by the city without consideration to the current residents.
As a Westporte resident, I know only too well how development concerns in conjunction with the elimination of green space go on deaf ears.
I strongly urge the city to carefully examine this plan and consider the long-term consequences of so many people living in this small space, and make appropriate modifications to decrease the current number of units to better fit the neighbourhood. After all, the city has become increasingly dependent on the annual taxes of the residential property owners who deserve the same respect the developers in Port Alberni seem to get.
Cara St. Remy,
Port Alberni, BC
