Opinions on whether to keep some of Beacon Hill Park’s internal roadways shut to vehicle traffic are all over the map, says Kate Friars, Victoria’s director of parks and recreation.
“We’re hearing from all ends of the spectrum, from complete closures to complete reopen and everything in between,” Friars said.
In an effort to stop motorists from using the park as a shortcut between James Bay and the Cook Street village and to reduce vehicle traffic in the park, Victoria councillors last summer approved a trial to block off some park roads, reduce parking on others and turn some roads into one-way routes.
Parks staff initially recommended a $500,000 plan to permanently decommission some of the parks roads in favour of more walking and cycling paths. Rather than tearing up the roads right away, councillors decided on the less expensive and less permanent option of erecting bollards on certain roads.
The three-month trial, which began last August, was extended for a full year so staff could better evaluate the impacts.
Friars said the extension has been helpful.
“We certainly aren’t opposed to people driving to the park and parking, but the report recommended people getting out of their vehicles and walking through the park to enjoy what the park has to offer,” Friars said. “But … we’re hearing about people who would like to offer a different type of experience, such as driving elderly parents through the park who aren’t able to walk. This is why we want to hear from everybody.”
Not all roadways are closed. Motorists are still able to drive in and out of the park. All of the parking lots remain open and street parking in front of the petting zoo, cricket pitch and water play area is available. Motorists have access to the Cricket Pitch off Heywood Avenue, but there is no through traffic to Circle Drive.
Changes to roads in the park include:
• Closing portions of Heywood Avenue and Bridge Way to vehicle traffic.
• Motorists are able to enter the park at Arbutus Way off Superior Street and at Circle Drive off Douglas Street. Two entrances and exits off Park Boulevard remain open.
• Arbutus Way is being maintained as a one-way access for vehicle use, but parallel parking is limited.
• Chestnut Road is a one-way southbound route for motorists. Drivers can head east or west on Circle Drive to exit the park.
• The westbound lane of Circle Drive from Dallas Road to Chestnut Road is dedicated to pedestrians and cyclists.
The trial winds up at the end of August, and parks staff hope those interested will take the time to let the city know their views.
The city is setting up an information booth in the park at the sun dial in the ornamental garden (opposite the public washrooms off Bridge Way) on July 10 from 4 to 7 p.m.
Surveys are also available at the park’s maintenance yard at the end of Nursery Road, and at the public service centre at Victoria City Hall.
