My family lives on 25th St near 32nd Ave. I recently phoned the city of Vernon requesting to speak with a city planner regarding the possibility of a sidewalk and some other traffic calming systems be placed on our street. I received a return call from the same secretary with whom I initially spoke stating that these items are part of the city plan, pending budget approval. I was already aware of this. I would like to see some action.
I would like to know what I and my neighbors can do to show how important walking safety is for our children and all of those people attempting to walk or cycle down our street without being in danger – 25th St is commonly used as a second thoroughfare by vehicles attempting to avoid 27th St.
I have two young daughters and there are many other young children on our street who are constantly put in danger by speeding traffic. We are unable to walk to town without having to constantly watch over our shoulders for traffic that is coming at us. When I pick my daughter up from pre-school we use other streets to get home so that she can ride her bike safely.
I am an emergency room physician at the VJH and I am all too aware of the effects that errant vehicles can have on those people who are attempting to get around town by bike or on foot.
I am appalled at the lack of planning for foot and bicycle traffic in Vernon. In most cities a street like 25th would be perfect for bicycles, not to mention foot traffic. This is not the case here.
Any response would be appreciated.
We would like to be able to enjoy our street in safety.
Mathew Hewitt
Vernon
