While the jury might be out on some on the benefits of the Arbutus Greenway, members of the Kerrisdale Business Association are optimistic the new route will draw shoppers to the village.
KBA president Glenn Knowles, who opened Gem Chocolates in Kerrisdale in 2011, says the association was thrilled with news of the greenway and immediately contacted the city to ensure their members could be involved with planning the look and feel of the pathways as it weaves its way from West 37th to 49th avenues. Once complete, the nine-kilometre greenway, a former rail line, will run from False Creek to the north and the Fraser River to the south.
The Courier had some question for Knowles about the project.
What would you like to see along the greenway?
To optimize the enjoyment of the greenway for all, I envision it to be a safe, secure space boasting lighting and public amenities and services (toilets, drinking fountains and litter receptacles) and being multi-purpose — exercise, eco-friendly transit (cycling, walking, running, rollerblading, etc.), gardens to enjoy, public art installations, benches for resting, relaxation and enjoying the views.
Do you think a paved path has an advantage over a gravel path?
A smooth, hard surface certainly benefits people with baby strollers, wheelchairs and rollerblades, which increases its usability to be more all-inclusive. It also offers a better surface for ease of cleaning and general maintenance. Aesthetically a gravel surface may be more appealing, but from a practical perspective a smooth, hard surface offers greater benefits.
How do you think it will affect foot and bike traffic to Kerrisdale?
It has already increased dual traffic to Kerrisdale Village.
Do you think it will have an economic impact on Kerrisdale?
Yes, of course. When the project is completed we hope that new benches, art, bike racks and the occasional event along the byway will entice ramblers and cyclists to drop in to one of the first business districts in Vancouver (established 1905).
What kind of uses do you envision for the line?
We are already planning a long table dinner (if we get permission) in conjunction with the Garden Club of Vancouver as an end of summer fundraiser to supplement planting dollars for the Kerrisdale section of the [greenway]. Stay tuned.
If you had a wish list for the line, what would it be?
I suppose my vision would be that it will be more than a cycle/pedestrian path — a place to truly recreate and be refreshed by as much nature as we can possibly fit in, that though paved, it will have lush, soft edges that compel users to explore all the neighbourhoods along the way, and that it happens sooner than later!
sthomas@vancourier.com
