Re: “Action urged to govern float-plane noise,” Jan. 18.
As a fifth-generation Victorian and a 30-year resident of a waterfront property, I believe I have a duty to comment on Coun. Ben Isitt’s recent views on float-plane traffic in the Inner Harbour.
I’m wondering why the councillors responsible for being the liaison for the affected area (all sides of the harbour) have not come forward to address the concerns of residents. I believe only one or two non-turboprop planes are operating now, compared with 25 years ago.
Before the turboprop, the Inner Harbour was much louder. Turboprops changed everything.
Many people living on the Inner Harbour are not from here and do not know of the past. Johnson Street and Pandora Avenue were “skid row.” Today, downtown is much nicer and more inviting than 40 to 50 years ago, thanks to past and present mayors and councillors.
In less than one year, Victoria Harbour will celebrate 100 years of float-plane traffic, with the first airmail float planes arriving in these waters operated by Bill Boeing.
As everyone dislikes obtrusive noise, I believe the noise today is well within the tolerance level of most citizens. Planes do not take off too early or too late. They fly only in daylight.
Furthermore, for people to complain about noise after buying property on the harbour is like someone buying a house next to Victoria International Airport and complaining about noise. I believe federal Transport Minister Marc Garneau’s comments will address most citizens’ concerns.
Christopher Mcbride Moore
Victoria
