The City of Burnaby is looking to add sidewalks on Merritt Avenue in southeast Burnaby, but a local business has concerns about the project.
Rhonda Lee, bookkeeper at Suspended Stages on Merritt, said she’s concerned about the loss of parking.
Currently there are no sidewalks on Merritt Avenue, which stretches from Imperial Street to Beresford Street, east of Metrotown mall.
Lee said while there are a few pedestrians, it’s mostly cars that frequent the area.
“There’s not a lot of people that walk up and down the street,” Lee said, noting most people walking to the area from the SkyTrain use Shirley Avenue.
Lee said sidewalks aren’t necessary for the street — and will make it more difficult for large delivery trucks to make it through.
Merritt Avenue is home to a variety of auto repair and contractors’ shops.
“I think the road needs to be repaired and the water main should be upgraded,” Lee said. “But putting sidewalks in? It’s not necessary.”
Lee also had concerns about the amount of notice the city gave businesses.
The water main along Merritt Avenue is scheduled for replacement next year, and as part of that project, the city is proposing upgrades to the road “to bring this street up to the City’s standard, which includes curb and gutters, sidewalks and boulevard trees,” said Cole Wagner, the city’s public affairs officer.
He said the project would reduce the amount of street parking available on Merritt Avenue.
The city notified property owners in the area last week and will host an open house on Thursday, Oct. 13 to receive feedback on the project.
Royal Oak Water Main and Road Upgrades Open House
When: Thursday, Oct. 13 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Where: Burnaby City Hall, council committee room (4949 Canada Way)
