Last year, Wales championed the extraordinary move of lowering the speed limit to 20 mph. Research showed a strong link between lowering speeds and decreasing the number of collisions and injuries.
If Sooke wants safer streets, reducing the speed limit would eliminate the need for more pedestrian flashing lights crossings, which the District of Sooke proposes.
Another example is Chase, B.C. Its neighbourhood golf cart bylaw permits golf carts on local roads and approved highways. They cannot travel faster than 30 km/h on a paved, level surface and are not permitted to share facilities with pedestrians or cyclists, as they are legally defined as motor vehicles.
The District of Sooke could design a new paradigm that addresses the feasibility of an active transportation plan that allows golf carts on secondary municipal roads. We should also consider allowing golf carts on Sooke’s network of interconnecting, multi-use trails; it could be a key alternative transportation corridor. As an example, the proposed Little River Multi-Use Trail is seen as lessening vehicular traffic from Sun River for shoppers and students.
No hurry—no worry! Human beings were never “built for speed.” However, with all the proliferation of modern gadgets that supposedly save us time, we still embrace a pervading, addictive culture and a sense of entitlement that we need “faster horses.” Sooke could become a model community that champions environmentally sound, alternative modes of travel. Go Green, Sooke.
Mick Rhodes
Sooke