Editor:
A new proposal from Century Group for re-building a strategic area of 56th Street adjacent to the Coast Tsawwassen Inn is a major opportunity to begin a serious transformation of 56th Street.
Before and in conjunction with this proposal, a new vision of 56th Street as Main Street Tsawwassen is greatly needed. We need a vision for an attractive, livable and vibrant pedestrian, cycle, transit and disabled focused main street. Main Street 56 would greatly enhance and vitalize the economic, social and cultural life of Tsawwassen.
Main Street 56 is needed for safe, attractive pedestrian/transit, disabled and cycle connections to existing amenities such as the upgraded South Delta Recreation Centre, new Southpointe Academy, South Delta Baptist Church, Coast Tsawwassen Inn and the town centre's commercial and service area.
The Century proposal for a seniors facility like the Waterford and an office building fronting 56th Street with townhouses and patio apartments facing 55th Street offers a lot of potential for the community.
However, the setbacks from the street, especially 56th Street, must be sufficient to allow for generous public space for an attractive universal design sidewalk, a cycle path and transit access.
Thanks to the planning department, Corporation of Delta and Century Group for the informative public meeting last Thursday evening. Special thanks also to council members Sylvia Bishop, Robert Campbell and Scott Hamilton for being in attendance along with many neighbours.
The key concerns from residents were traffic, parking, height of buildings (four-storey seniors facility and six-storey office building) and density. There would be a significant decrease of traffic on 56th Street by starting to develop a clear plan for improved pedestrian, transit and cycle access at the site.
The height of new residential and commercial buildings on 56th Street outside the town centre at 12 Avenue is an important question for public debate.
Tsawwassen has a great opportunity to become a more vibrant, healthier, greener and more prosperous and interesting community for residents and visitors. Let's get started.
Carol Vignale
