Sidewalks & street lighting as the neighbourhood grows
A walkable neighbourhood needs somewhere to walk and enough light to feel safe after dark. As the Ridge grows, we want sidewalks and lighting to keep pace, not lag years behind.
Background
One of the promises of a neighbourhood like ours is that you can walk it, to a friend’s place, to the trailhead, to wait for a school bus. That only holds if there’s somewhere safe to walk and enough light to see and be seen. In a young neighbourhood, sidewalks and lighting sometimes arrive well after the homes do, leaving gaps that families feel every day.
We’re keeping an eye on this one. Nothing here is a criticism of any particular decision, it’s a priority we want on the table as the Ridge continues to fill in.
Our position
We believe sidewalks and street lighting should grow alongside the neighbourhood, guided by where people actually walk and where it feels unsafe after dark. Thoughtful lighting and connected, accessible walkways make a place safer and friendlier for everyone, kids, older neighbours, and anyone out with a dog at dusk.
What we’re asking the City
We’re asking the City of Courtenay to consider pedestrian connections and lighting as the neighbourhood develops, and to hear from residents about where the gaps are felt most. We’re happy to help gather that local knowledge and pass it along clearly, so improvements land where they’ll do the most good.
What you can do
- Point out streets where you'd like a sidewalk or better lighting, and tell us why.
- Share the times and spots where walking after dark feels uncomfortable.
- Add your name to the list so you hear when these decisions come up at the City.