To the editor:
Many concerned citizens have expressed their suggestion in finding a proper site for the Kelowna Tourist Info Centre. Opposing arguments have been endorsed by the president of the tourist centre and the manager of the chamber of commerce.
With due respect to these individuals who claim that the best location is at the foot of Queensway Avenue, I believe they are biased. First of all the chamber of commerce can be located in an office downtown; a two storey (info centre) building will destroy the lake view, eliminate parking and increase traffic congestion in the area, especially if Westcorp builds the 24-storey tower and blocks Mill Road to Queensway.
The city and the tourist office claim that a waterfront office will help Kelowna’s tourist industry. I would suggest to keep the present highway office and install a satellite branch along the lake with longer hours to service the walk-in traffic. The Chamber can relocate elsewhere. The highway will alleviate the traffic congestion: Can anyone imagine during summer how hard it will be for large motor homes or travel trailers attempting to find their way to the tourist office on Queensway?
As a last choice why not remodel the old yacht club building for the tourist centre, although limited parking and accessibility would still be a challenge, I’m sure Mr. Stuart would not object to a smaller park.
Ono Curatolo
Kelowna
