I seriously question the need for a roundabout at the bottom of Memorial Avenue at Highway 19A. I am the closest resident to that intersection and am well aware of the pedestrian and vehicle traffic at that corner.
Since the pedestrian-activated light was installed for the crosswalk across 19A, I am not aware of any pedestrian-related accidents. I have written to the town and spoken with council and still do not see data that supports this decision. I understand that a roundabout is a done deal. The town has received a grant of about $1.3 million but total costs, as I understand, are over $7 million.
There will now be three crosswalks. To make it fit, the land mass will have to be extended out into the water and I question what changes will result on the rest of the beach due to changes in wave action. I still don’t know what problems the town is trying to fix with this “solution.” I don’t think people believe this idea is even real, let alone a done deal.
Voice your concerns to town council now before it is too late and construction starts. The town should clearly explain the rationale for this and share the base data, guarantee in writing, that pedestrian safety will not be affected by this design and show the science that will project beach changes to be expected.
Wendy Maurer
Qualicum Beach