Letter: Put cyclist-only crosswalks on fast track

The stunning new Hallten Road cycling corridor developed in Victoria and Saanich is becoming a major route for all cycle traffic heading west from Oak Bay north into Victoria and is the hub of the region wishing to access Willows Beach/Esteban. It is becoming a major route for cyclists. , Oak Bay High, Oak Bay Recreation Center Area.

The lack of cyclist-specific crosswalks on Foul Bay Road and Haultain currently creates a dangerous gap in this popular corridor as it explodes in popularity.

Safe, cyclist-specific crossings at this high-traffic intersection are fundamental to safely promoting the use of car alternative transportation not only in Oak Bay, but throughout the metropolitan area. Greater use of vehicle alternatives can reduce parking demand in parks and neighborhoods.

As traffic calms down McNeill Avenue south of Oak Bay and Oak Bay moves forward, the City Council will need to look across the municipality to determine where an aggressive transportation plan can best be deployed. In a discussion with Oak Bay Engineering this morning that there are future plans to consider redeveloping the Halten Crossing in Foul Bay and creating a cycle path to Esteban/Willows and the Oak Bay High/Oak Bay Recreation Center area. I found out

We encourage all councilors to expedite these improvements to promote safe alternatives to cars.

Hugh Aitken

oak bay