Sylvan Lake councillors heard a number of propositions for transportation service improvements during 2013 budget discussions, spread over Oct. 30 and 31, and Nov. 3. Transportation services account for 55 per cent of public works department expenses.
Sylvan Lake Family and Community Centre parking lot will receive improvements in 2013, with the second part of a tri-phase reconstruction plan. The first stage was completed in 2012.
Next year a section of the parking lot will be rebuilt and repaved, and the sidewalk at the entrance will be replaced at an estimated cost of $420,000.
The third phase of the project is planned for 2014, with the addition of a new storm system, concrete medians, greenery, and repainted street lights. A section of the parking lot will also be designated for RVs, and a new trail will connect 43rd Street to Four Seasons Park.
Councillors also added $250,000 to the budget for increasing downtown parking, with 40 new stalls to the side of 49th Street.
“It’s been said that we would address a parking problem, but we don’t have a ready solution,” said Mayor Susan Samson.
Councillor Ken MacVicar questioned whether increased parking would benefit the area outside the summer tourist season.
“We’ve got to find something to offset what we did at the marina,” said Councillor Dale Plante, citing the loss of public parking in the area.
Councillors budgeted $15,000 for seven new signs at the 60th Street entrance, 60th Street and 48th Avenue, and Memorial Trail. The signs will direct visitors to town services.
Following a presentation by John Watson, public works manager, a combined total of $700,000 was included as a capital project for a new garbage collection vehicle and specialized garbage bins. The new vehicle would be fully automated, and would lift and dump the garbage without workers having to do the work themselves. The new vehicle would improve efficiency, with up to 160 collections per hour, and reduce staff injuries.
“I really feel it’s the way of the future,” said Watson.