My post on “Cycling around the Richmond Trail … and Surviving” was pretty much an outraged indictment of a dangerous and misleadingly advertised “trail.” The post evoked an interesting response from the City of Richmond:
“Thank-you for your feedback. The information on the trails brochure regarding on-street cycling routes could certainly be clearer. We will amend the on-line information to clearly show that Connector Routes are on-street.
Reading your perspective on your blog was interesting and informative. The City of Richmond Parks and Transportation Departments are working to create a continuous cycling and walking network around Lulu Island but there are gaps. For example, on Westminster Highway, just a section of the trail was constructed as part of a road improvement project and it will be completed over time as funding opportunities arise. In the meantime, we will certainly look at signage and other means to address the issues you have raised.
Regards,
Jamie Esko, Manager
Parks – Planning & Design
City of Richmond
604-233-3341”
I thought this was a pretty cool response. It goes to show that it is worth contacting our local municipalities, as they may not be aware of the cyclist’s perspective, and may well appreciate the feedback and take steps to improve matters. At the very least, you may get more information, which may help you to feel not quite so cranky.
I was happy to hear that steps will be taken to improve the on-line information, and to address the other issues I raised, such as lack as signage. And I was also pleased to hear that the Westminster Highway route will be completed when funds allow.
However, I do have to wonder what would happen if highways for cars stopped in the middle of nowhere, because funds had run out …
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