With reference to the re-print in the Journal of a 30 year old article by George Stewardson (the Observer) titled 'Sarnia has new plan for ailing downtown'. Yes readers, it […]
With reference to the re-print in the Journal of a 30 year old article by George Stewardson (the Observer) titled 'Sarnia has new plan for ailing downtown'. Yes readers, it has been that long since that headline got our attention!
Now, 30 years later we look back and wonder what happened (or didn't). It was all about the suggestion of revitalizing the downtown with specific talk of connecting Front Street to our beautiful St. Clair River. Maybe a market, a trolley to Centennial Park, a pier, docks and, of course, a restaurant, wider sidewalks, gardens, a market, trees, benches, patios, welcoming docks for boats to park, etc.
Over the years, there were even cruise ship hopefuls who could see the boats docking, disembarking and shopping, among a few other things. I personally feel the logistics for this venture for Sarnia would be impossible to comprehend. Even 30 years back, who seriously had the funding for this project?
The suggestion of wider sidewalks got my attention as I commiserate regularly with friends about the state of our roads. Road repairs should come first before wider sidewalks for downtown renos. I have actually memorized the location of the many potholes and cracked concrete on streets I travel regularly. I try and dodge them as best I can but it is especially difficult on Vidal St. going south through Chemical Valley.
With all the groups stepping up with their hands out, I mention just one…the new police station which our Mayor and many on council could not, in all good conscience approve and increase citizens' taxes perhaps for decades to cover an estimated cost of $91 M. That estimate of late has been increased to $120 M.
Lastly, a word of appreciation for Mayor Bradley and City Councillors who, for some, are experiencing one of the hardest tenures as they serve our city. Some citizens have decided that one person should be responsible for all that our city lacks and that is the Mayor, which is a lot of nonsense. He is a member of council and cannot do it all. I draw attention to the calm, respectful and professional way he chairs the council meetings, regardless of what is thrown his way.
