Plan templates for civic events
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Updated: November 20, 2009 12:30 PM
Editor:
Re: Sea Fest changes in offing, Nov. 13.
Spirit of the Sea Festival and Spirit Square – same word, same problem.
When our municipalities don’t understand the fundamental differences between urbanism and planning, typical mistakes repeat over and over again.
The $19,647 cost difference for the festival between 2007 and 2009 isn’t clear. About $15,000 was for increased police presence. That fundamental we have right.
When the barriers go up and the traffic rules change, Marine Drive becomes “White Rock Piazza.”
Since it happens regularly, city hall should ready a template.
Site templates for the waterfront, Five Corners, sandcastles, movies, farmers market, city hall/library block, etc., would present organizers a “menu of choices.”
Reviewing templates every year would enhance safety.
I eyeballed the site after 10 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday at the Sea Festival and welcomed the sight of neighbours helping direct traffic. Our four-year old – and friends – jumped for joy when they heard a sponsor was found, and the fireworks were back.
Has anyone noticed all the traffic control and barricades at Granville Island? No? Yet, the speed limit is 30 km/h – same as our waterfront.
Why is it safe to mix pedestrians and cars there, yet we need barricades and traffic control here?
Lewis N. Villegas, White Rock
