Metro Vancouverites are expressing frustration after White Rock City Council approved a motion to close one lane of Marine Drive over the summer.
The decision to close the north lane of Marine Drive was made at the May 10 City Council meeting; the lane is slated to remain closed until September 2021.
The City said the move will allow owners of waterfront establishments to offer more patio seating during the warmer months when the street draws more patrons. And while many people welcomed the announcement, others say the decision will create havoc on the popular street.
White Rock resident Gary Worters told Vancouver Is Awesome that he is in "disbelief that White Rock council approved this" after rejecting the motion three weeks ago.
"My question is how would a firetruck reach a fire, or an EMS vehicle get through a road blocked with bumper to bumper vehicles. I just don't get it," he said.
Worters added that he doesn't understand why Marine Drive is being "singled out" when many other businesses across the city are suffering. Further, if restrictions on indoor dining are lifted after the May long weekend, he said the motion would "be in vain."
Several other locals took to social media to express frustration with the announcement, with many of them noting that the street is already busy.
So stupid, it’s already so backed up there in the summer. Going down to a one lane road is going be be a shit show..
— chloe (@chloebotts) May 11, 2021
I lived on Marine Dr for 15 years...they should have completely closed the drive...instead, have fun sucking exhaust fumes all summer while people try to park, cause people will continue to visit no matter what! Bad decision by the mayor! The drive will be backed up to KG!
— Love To Paddle (@fraser_estate) May 12, 2021
It is already busy and hard to find parking as it is... this will just deter people from going into that area...which will affect the businesses more so.
— Sanj (@sanjoiya) May 12, 2021
They only want locals there so what’s the point of this other to disrupt traffic,, Yet another stupid decision. They must be taking advice from Horgan!!!
— Hogan H (@tundratough) May 12, 2021
Emergency vehicles are going to have a great time navigating through traffic
— Tib (@Tib_cordeiro) May 12, 2021
Sounds incredibly appealing! Harleys & muscle cars cruising past inches from your head!
— Grant Crawford (@crawford_grant) May 12, 2021
Of course, many other people welcome the closure and feel it will be a boon for businesses along the waterfront that have suffered financially due to the pandemic.I lived on Marine Dr for 15 years...they should have completely closed the drive...instead, have fun sucking exhaust fumes all summer while people try to park, cause people will continue to visit no matter what! Bad decision by the mayor! The drive will be backed up to KG!
— Love To Paddle (@fraser_estate) May 12, 2021
It is already busy and hard to find parking as it is... this will just deter people from going into that area...which will affect the businesses more so.
— Sanj (@sanjoiya) May 12, 2021
For patio expansion.Lots of small businesses suffering everywhere, this is small but great step in the right direction.
— hotdog water (@0gbxc) May 12, 2021
I think they should close both lanes .. pedestrians only ...
— Iriname (@IrinaEisele) May 12, 2021
I think it’s awesome - it’s a beautiful place to walk - relax enjoy the scenery and have great food.
— Diane Martin (@DianeMa84029619) May 12, 2021
Yaaaas
— Amanda Adams (@lexiburdock) May 12, 2021
Before the closure begins, a City team that includes engineering, roads and emergency services must confirm a plan with input from the White Rock Business Improvement Association, representing restaurants, for a safe, effective closure, explains a release from the City.
Access to parking for Marine Drive residents will also be considered in the finalized plan.
The closure is likely to mean that eastbound travel will be permitted on Marine Drive, but a date and details still need to be confirmed and communicated by the city.
