Barry Salaberry’s letter (Penticton Western News, Aug. 9, Skaha Marina Plan there for taking) was brilliant food for thought.
That is what a concept plan is for — input from locals that is actually used.
Salaberry says he disagrees with returning the foreshore to riparian usage because it will reduce vehicle and boat trailer parking and dislikes forfeiting quiet, green space and wildlife habitat. Fair enough. Make sure no green space is lost.
The quiet, green space area in this concept, that borders South Main, was considered for parking. It will not be touched and will remain as is. We really are listening.
The marina area will never become the Royal Britannia Yacht Club. This small area is for the family of boaters, from tiny rubber dinghies to huge outriggers and everything in between. Each of these categories have their own special needs.
We have heard many complaints regarding launching boats and parking. It has been our observation that most difficulties seem to arise from the different skill levels needed during the process, different patience levels tested and perhaps a lack of willingness from others to lend a hand.
This area, like all things, has a limited capacity and the demand, at peak tourist times, often overwhelms that capacity.
Our goal here is to “trade” space in one area, like the lawfully protected riparian area, for “in kind” space on the back part of the now existing parking lot. Give the foreshore back to people in the form of grass and a walkway. Give the parking back in the form of extending away from the water.
Trading and greening the space along the foreshore also makes it safer for other groups of people who use the park, walkers and bikers.
Come down and tell us what we’re doing wrong or what we’re doing right. The model is displayed in the back corner of the marina building at Skaha Lake Park.
Lynn Crassweller
Penticton