Editor:
I think that this might qualify under the heading: Truth is often stranger than fiction.
Our family has lived in White Rock and South Surrey for over 20 years. The ‘progress’ around us seems too fast, too much, too massive! The character of this beautiful area is disappearing. “Highrise jungle” comes to mind.
So far, I have only read the voices of discontent in Peace Arch News. Now, you can add me to the voices.
On July 21, at 10 a.m., my son, who was on the crosswalk from North Bluff to Johnston Road was hit by a HandyDart bus! Injured, he was taken to Peace Arch Hospital, treated and released with injuries to his face, back, knee and arm! The shock to his mind and body did not show up on the X-ray, of course. He has walked this same intersection from his home for over 20 years.
The following Thursday, I had to take the 351 bus into White Rock for banking and to go to a business on Johnston Road. The bus stop at the corner, near Central Plaza, had been removed by the city a month ago and relocated to in front of Rexall.
As I approached the bus stop, a man wearing an orange vest said: “Anyone looking for the bus stop? This week the bus isn’t coming to this stop. I’ll take you where you have to go.”
Now, it is extremely hot, I am a senior and somewhat surprised. Off we go – he walks with a good stride – down Johnston Road, around the corner to Thrift.
“Where are you taking me, and why are you walking with me?” I asked.
“I have to, I was hired.”
He points to a bus stop way down Thrift towards Oxford.
Me: “You are kidding. You are lucky that you have a fit senior keeping up with you. In this heat the outcome could be a disaster.”
“Sorry,” he says. “Wait here for the bus, I have to go back up to the corner and look for more bus riders.”
He looks in his phone.
“The 351 is delayed. I will keep an eye out for you. If this bus doesn’t come I will come and get you!”
“And to which place will you take me?” I asked.
“To the next stop” is his answer. That would be in front of the White Spot – a mile away.
“No thanks, you will have to call a taxi for me on your phone please. I will send the bill to White Rock City Hall.”
Well, it never came to that. The bus eventually came – late and very full.
How bizarre how all this happened!
I wonder if any of the decision makers take the bus, walk through dangerous intersections or even care?
Heidi Bumann, Surrey
