Two new Dallas Road project proposals following backlash over loss of parking

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WATCH: The CRD is looking for public feedback on a controversial plan that would see 50 parking spots lost along the Dallas Road waterfront. Isabelle Raghem reports. 

After getting some heat for their original design in December, the Capital Regional District has come out with two new options for changes to the Dallas Road waterfront as part of the sewage treatment project.

The first new proposal includes bikes lanes and would have 115 angled parking stalls between Dock St. and Lewis St. There would also be four curb extensions to make it easier for pedestrians and cyclists to cross.

The second design also includes bike lanes but has 129 angled stalls and two curb extensions.

The initial design presented to the City of Victoria in December included loss of 50 parking spots from Dock to Lewis Streets to make room for bike lanes. It led to backlash.

READ MORE:  Proposed bike lanes on Dallas Road puts 63 parking spots on the chopping block

“I’m very angry,” said one James Bay resident during a public meeting Wednesday night.

More than 150 people packed James Bay New Horizons to get an update on the progress being made, ask questions and voice concerns about the impact of the project on Dallas Road.

“There are lots of people who come down here with friends of theirs who are tourists, they want to get close to the breakwater,” said a resident.

“There are people who are in wheelchairs and with walkers, I think we have to realize there is a variety of demographics in this city.”

“I’m kind of wondering, why do we need the bike lane in the first place,” said another resident.

The Deputy Director of the CRD’s wastewater project team says they are holding public meetings to hear those kinds of concerns and will be reporting them back to council.

“We’ve developed a few alternative options that retain angled parking along Dallas Road and we’re interested to hear what people think of those options,” said Elizabeth Scott.

The second public meeting is scheduled for Thursday at 7:30 p.m the Cook Street Village Activity Centre at 380 Cook Street.

 

Isabelle RaghemIsabelle Raghem

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