Ditch cleaning necessary
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Updated: September 16, 2009 2:54 PM
Editor:
I have been in contact with numerous provincial departments and personnel in regards to the maintenance of the ditches on 264 Street from Highway 1 to the U.S. border.
My latest conversation was with a representative of Mainroad Contracting in regards to this work. I was advised that the ditch clean up was scheduled for Sept. 1, and the ditch would be looked after.
The automated lawnmower showed up Sept. 3 and cleaned one side of the ditch. In discussion with the operator, I was advised he can only clean as far as the machine can reach, and he does not go into the ditch to clean both sides of the slope.
This incomplete cleaning is in direct contravention of the Mainroad’s contract with the province.
The B.C Ministry of Transportation document clearly outlines the conditions of the contract.
2.1 Routine Maintenance Services: The contractor must clean and remove debris from ditches and watercourses where earth moving equipment is not required.
A further concern about the overgrown ditch is the proliferation of rats. As the avian flu scare swept through our area, the rats moved to the most livable area, unfortunately using the ditches as a base.
I am confident an investigation of this matter will result in immediate action to clean all sides of the ditches on 264 Street from Highway 1 through to the border.
An immediate resolution of this matter would be appreciated.
Terry Brenan, Aldergrove
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