The City of North Vancouver is scaling back its Open Streets Action Plan, a “bold experiment,” that the city admits hasn’t had the desired effect in neighbourhoods.
CNV has removed street barricades from 17th Street and St Andrews Avenue, according to Stephanie Smiley, the communications officer for CNV.
In an update to the council, CAO Leanne McCarthy said the plan was a “bold experiment” by CNV.
McCarthy said staff has received constant feedback on the issue. “We hope this method of testing and listening can shorten our innovation cycle,” she added.
In a column he wrote for North Shore Daily Post, former council candidate Ken Izatt argued the open street plan will limit parking, create congestion and harm the very local businesses it wants to help.
He also started a petition demanding barricades be removed from the city streets. The petition garnered more than 500 signatures.
Izatt said he is happy the barricades are gone and the council have acted on the wishes of the residents.
“I am very pleased that our Mayor and Council have listened to the resident of North Vancouver’s concerns and have re-opened two major city roads to everyone and all forms of mobility,” he said.
According to the CNV, the Open Streets Action Plan’s intent is to create more space for everyone to physically distance, and improving access to local businesses.
CNV is also seeking citizens feedback on the open streets plan.
I do not understand the need for open plan streets. We have beautiful parks, tracks and two sidewalks on each street. Which are never full, that I can see.
I also don’t understand Lonsdale, I can see having some seating in front of food places…..but the rest?
Please tell me what is happening to Grand Blvd.?
Unfortunately, car is king here. Add in dreadful driving and people don’t feel safe sitting out exposed on Lonsdale. Everytime I go to E15th and Lonsdale there’s someone turning illegally without a care in the world.
I understand the concept. It’s been successfully utilized in many cities and towns around the world but it just seemed to add to the chaos that has become that quarter of Lonsdale. Also, in this world of social distancing having to ‘squeeze’ between restaurant patios on one side and chairs and tables on the other side of the sidewalk was stressful for pedestrians, some of whom walked out into the traffic lane to avoid the congestion.
This seems like such a foolish idea. I feel unsafe and frustrated by this set up. It also doesn’t make sense. I don’t see the space being used much but why would we want it to be used at all? Shouldn’t we be social distancing, not lingering in crowded public places? And why on earth would we need extra space in front of businesses like banks? Who hangs out outside of a bank? I now avoid the area as much as I can and go elsewhere for groceries etc. And what a waste of money. If we are looking at a financial crunch due to COVID, why are we spending money on this? There are many more important things. I want them to take it ALL down. And directing us to side streets when the side streets are closed for construction? So stupid.