Editor of Sylvan Lake News
RE: Parking at NexSource Centre
As a long time resident of Sylvan Lake, I am so very proud and pleased with the beautiful NexSource Centre. Never in my mind did I envision the fabulous facility. This has been so long over due. My praise to all the people that worked so hard to make this facility become a reality.
The one major shortfall is the lack of close parking for seniors, handicapped and parents with small children at the north entrance.
An easy solution to this serious problem would be to turn the “park” from the street to the railway fence into a parking lot for the above citizens. The potential for about 70 parking stalls is available in this area that would be used everyday for 12 months of the years, it could be restricted handicapped, seniors and parents with little ones until 6:30 or 7 p.m. each day and then be open for all vehicles except for the handicap stalls.
Observations:
On Fri. July 28 from 12-4 p.m., while playing bridge at the Seniors Centre, not one person used the park area that is visible from the centre. “Common Sense” tells me this property would be used to its greatest potential as a parking lot and not as a park that is seldom used.
Leaving the cement area with large flower pots and benches would not be affected. There are 13 benches and tables at the park that could be used elsewhere. The cement blocks on the retaining wall could be used elsewhere or sold. The 30 or more mature trees could be moved elsewhere to other Town properties or be sold to possibly a developer for trees in their subdivision.
The major cost to the Town would be hauling out some dirt and bringing in gravel for the parking. Pavement would be nice, but not necessary at this time. Gravel parking lots have worked for us for years.
I would urge the Town to consider this proposal before winter arrives. To expect seniors or handicapped individuals to walk on ice and snow covered roads in -20 or -30 C weather is inviting disaster. At present some parking is a full block from the front entry.
If you agree that something needs to be done, please let your voice be heard now, by contacting our town representatives. I would be more than happy to discuss this proposal with any interested people for any input they may have.
Thank you,
Dale Mannix