Email from Marc Cittone regarding Eagle's Nest Development
Feedback regarding sustainability, suggesting a reduction in proposed parking and improved design for bicycle lanes on Helmcken Road.
Comments on Eagle's Nest Development
From: Marc Cittone
Sent: Monday, June 15, 2020 12:16 AM
To: Mayor And Council Email mayorandcouncil@viewroyal.ca
Subject: Comments on Eagle's Nest Development
Dear Mayor Screech and Councilors,
I’d like to reiterate three important concerns I have about the proposed Eagle’s Next development, that detract from its ability to support sustainability in the community:
The development is proposing more parking than even the transportation engineering consultant recommends. My reason for supporting this development includes that it is near transit (including the future Rapid Transit spine), the Galloping Goose and services. The developer states they are providing what our current zoning bylaw requires. Providing this level of parking is costly, encourages single occupant vehicle use, and requires much embodied energy. I would also point our that our zoning bylaw contains an option to reduce parking by providing contributions towards sustainable and active transportation. I highly recommend we instruct our staff to work with the developer to reduce parking to a more reasonable level, and support more sustainable transportation options.
I have strong concerns about the potential designs of Helmecken Road. In particular, bicycle lanes which are sandwiched between a right turning lane and a through lane are very poor and uncomfortable even for reasonably confident riders, much less the typical bicycle rider (as evidenced by the westbound bicycle lane on Island Highway at Admiral’s Road.) As are bicycle lanes which are not at least minimally separated from cars on a busy street. It would take very little to provide more secure lanes, including lanes separated from traffic by a buffer. A route is only as good as its weakest link, and this site needs to be comfortable connected to the Galloping Goose and eventually to transit. Please direct staff and the developer to work with the Greater Victoria Cycling Coalition on a better design that is in keeping with current best practice.
That’s all. I will add I saw no reason to limit buildings to 5 storeys along a relatively wide, busy street, but as I am mainly a visitor to the area (by bus, bike or car), it is not a major concern of mine.
Thanks sincerely for your attention,
- Marc
Marc Cittone
26 Demos Place