I took a different path and wrote a letter of support for the bridges to Ald Farrell, and she replied asking if she could use my letter in the future as there are very few voices in the public actually supporting such initiatives.

I find this odd, because there is a significant portion of Calgary’s public that is desirous of city planning utilizing more SmartGrowth development principles. Certainly more self concious and aware than “the average consumer/citizen”… but these voices are only being heard through formal channels (i.e. direct representation as a “group”).

If we want our city to change, we need to be involved with such groups, point out fallacies in Alderman’s tactics, but also show SUPPORT as individuals to those Alderman who are taking action that are in line with our beliefs.

Cheers.

I visit Portland Oregon about once a year. Their bike lanes and pathways absolutely put Calgary to shame. Their LRT is curbside so a station is simple and costs not much more to build than pouring a large sidewalk (and it goes to the airport of course!). They have a streetcar line to connect the high-density residential neighbourhoods (condos) with the downtown offices and shopping.

We just don’t seem to be able to keep our eye on the ball here in Calgary – it’s all about Quality of Life.