Editor: It is true that neighbourhoods should be respected. This is what we all want and need as Delta residents.
However, there may be a time when a larger definition of neighbourhood is required for the benefit and well-being of adjacent neighbourhoods and the larger community. This is the time for overlap and larger picture thinking.
The Southlands is adjacent to the neighbourhood of Boundary Bay but also adjacent to the neighbourhoods of Tsawwassen Terrace, Forest by the Bay and upper Tsawwassen. All of these communities share a border with the Southlands and therefore have a direct interest in the future of the land. While it is true the planned housing is mostly clustered next to Boundary Bay, it still remains the project will affect all the neighbours.
Up to now, the residents of Boundary Bay have been quite isolated from the rest of Tsawwassen because of the restricted access of only one road. The community has lost its elementary school, coffee shop and grocery store.
A new access road will provide more emergency safety for Boundary Bay as well as allowing direct access from south Tsawwassen. Open neighbourhoods promote improved social life of visiting neighbours. Greater ease to enter and leave Boundary Bay will lessen isolation. The new planned social community of Southlands with mixed
use of residential and commercial is designed as a bridge between agriculture and Boundary Bay.
Publicly-owned farmland, protected natural habitat, public open space, new access road, and bike and pedestrian paths are of major interest to adjacent neighbourhoods.
Let us join together linking neighbourhoods rather than dividing neighbours. Let's open our communities to new neighbours and new opportunities to benefit all. to benefit all.
Carol Vignale
