Vernon’s 20th Street parking issues were on City Council’s agenda again
Monday, following results from a satisfaction survey regarding
improvements completed between 43 and 48 Avenues.
Back in 2010, the City built much needed pedestrian infrastructure, narrowed the road and eliminated on-street parking. Mayor Sawatsky noted, “People are generally pleased with the improvements. But there are also some that are quite unhappy.” The residents who completed the survey were satisfied with many aspects
of the project, but 20 out of 29 respondents were not satisfied with
20th Street parking. Rob Dickinson, Director of Engineering Services for the City of Vernon,
noted that residents have been concerned about parking from the
beginning. “We held an open house back in 2009 to review the project
with the community, and parking was an issue at that time as well.” Despite a few suggestions from councillors, Dickinson explained that
there aren’t many viable options to increase parking on the street at
this time. “The costs go up as you look at the feasibility for these
things. Removal of landscaping is the best option.” The removal of landscaping would mean removing the existing curbing,
digging up irrigation, and relocating gutters as well. Dickinson
estimated the costs of such work could be as high as $20,000 per stall. The survey comes ahead of a public hearing that is scheduled for Monday
April 22. A rezoning request currently before Vernon City Council
proposes to build a 24 unit complex on a ½ acre lot in the 4600 block of
20 Street. With 20th Street being a busy thoroughfare and close to the BMX event
park as well as an elementary school, parking and traffic have become
huge concerns for residents. Some are worried that the addition of 24 units on the street will only make matters worse.
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Photo: Melissa Ligertwood - Castanet
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