Editor's note: This is a copy of a letter to the District of Squamish. It was copied to The Chief for publication.
I just want to express my concern and dismay at the District of Squamish and the event planners of the GranFondo for such poor planning and disrespect for the residents of Valleycliffe and Garibaldi Highlands/Estates during the GranFondo event. I know many people do not have the luxury of "arranging alternate travel time" during the proposed three-hour closure to these locations (I don't know if a full closure is planned for Valleycliffe but you do realize this is the only access our community has to and from Squamish General Hospital?!)
My understanding is that the GranFondo is a fun event and not a race at all and I cannot fathom why the participants should not follow the same traffic laws that the rest of the community must follow. I am fortunate that I live in Brackendale and have an alternate route I can follow that day, but I will not sit quietly by while I see my colleagues and friends across the highway be restricted and inconvenienced by an event that I know many of us would prefer to show support for.
I very strongly encourage the District of Squamish to do the right thing and allow the intersections of Clarke Drive, Mamquam Road and Garibaldi Way to remain fully open with flag people stationed to ensure the cyclists obey the traffic laws so that we don't result in any road rage, unnecessary accidents, or the possible risk to the safety of the residents in the communities that the current GranFondo Traffic Plan would close down.
This current plan is completely unsatisfactory and you as our council should be looking to the safety and convenience of your residents and voters first before the comfort of the participants to an event! If you truly want an event the residents of Squamish can support, then please don't hijack our ability to travel for an unacceptable three-hour period!Edith TobeBrackendale
