Tuesday’s letters: No monster builds on single lots

I note a flyer advised there will be a one-year zoning bylaw review June 3 which prompts this letter. I would like to address the new zoning bylaws which allow for oversized eight-plexes or residential apartments within single-family neighbourhoods.

While I agree that higher-density infill is an appropriate strategy, I am completely opposed to the large monstrosities being planted on single lots. Duplexes on single, or triplexes on corner lots can fit into existing neighbourhoods without destroying character and accommodate family units, not just single small apartments.

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A single-family homeowner would  lose sunlight and suffer from shadowing, privacy, and lack of enjoyment of property with a monster apartment unit built next door. This also comes with a severe lack of parking (though I know the city wants everyone to use transit).

I would suggest that the silent majority of residents in the city have had enough with excessive bike lanes and free-for-all zoning. I will be hoping for a change in city council should there not be a change to a more practical approach in planning and zoning.

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Ken Trueman, Edmonton

Problems with parking app

I recently had my first experience using the HotSpot Parking app at a City of Edmonton parking lot; it did not go well. The app did not recognise my credit card so we were unable to pay and park.

My husband who uses a cane had to walk three blocks to the theatre. That is not how seniors who have paid taxes in the city for over 50 years should be treated. I’ve tried to set up the HotSpot app using a different credit card and it again does not recognise my card.

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Virginia Reynolds, Edmonton

Bike lane will disrupt access

Bike-lane nightmares are what the taxpaying residents of West Meadowlark, residing on 95 Avenue between 170 Street and 165 Street have been and still are experiencing.

Our area has new sidewalks and a service road, hence no need for a special bike lane. We are not opposed to bike lanes in general but are opposed to unnecessary reduced road capacity and disrupted or obliterated critical vehicle access, especially for emergency services. I feel quite confident that if first responders were able to voice their concerns, they could enlighten everyone of the hardships they have already experienced trying to assist and access some of the areas already disrupted by such projects.

There is no need to spend millions demolishing the service road and sidewalk when what is already there is very functional for all vehicles, all type of bikes, handicap transportation and pedestrians. Please, City of Edmonton, let common sense prevail and leave that part of 95 Avenue as is.

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However, the roadways for both the west and east directions from 149 Street to 189 Street are in desperate need of repaving. Use the funds for that instead where it will benefit millions of Edmontonians.

Ines McGowan, Edmonton

Letters welcome

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