Re: “Parking misery found in downtown Sidney as well,” letter, Feb. 16.
Although I sympathize with the letter-writer’s parking plight (I’m sure everyone has experienced this at some point), several of his criticisms are unfounded and unfair to our community.
To begin with, parking on Sidney streets on weekends, and for that matter seven days a week, is free. We also have four free parking lots conveniently located in the downtown core. Our business community appreciates the value of free on-street parking and ensuring a level of enforcement associated with the parking time restrictions.
Last, I must stress that Sidney is a busy, vibrant town — which, quite frankly, is positive in all respects. We are very much a pedestrian- and bike-friendly community, with a compact downtown that is extremely walkable, and we are also well served by B.C. Transit. This is what makes it so attractive to our residents, business owners and visitors, and one of the reasons many people choose to relocate here.
I invite everyone to shop, eat, stay and play in Sidney by the Sea — and enjoy the free parking!
Mayor Steven Price
Sidney
