A development proposal for an 18-storey tower is on the agenda for the upcoming Public Hearing on December 9, 6 pm.

This is for one of 4 towers in the pipeline for the Brown/Edge/Dewdney area, and in another 5 years or so from now a developer is expected to move ahead with 5 more towers between Brown and Dewdney, west of 224th.

These highrises will have a major impact on density in the town core, as well as on our road system, since most people still rely on their cars quite a bit, even when living in a more walkable area. 

Our HUB committee has alerted cyclists to this development, and we hope that many people will give their comments to council before or at the Public Hearing. Safe infrastructure for cyclists is of course only one important aspect of this proposal, and it's something that not only cyclists should be paying attention to. This is really a game changer for Maple Ridge. 

There will be opportunities, but also challenges. It's important for everyone to take a look at what's been planned and help think about how we can make sure that this will be a positive thing for Maple Ridge.

It has to be more than just trying to cram as many people in a small space as possible. We need to tell Council that we need to provide some high quality people spaces, enough greenspace, and a safe environment for walking and cycling, so we can reduce our car- and oil dependence and improve livability. Even for those who don't bike themselves, this is important. If we continue to put the car first, we can expect serious congestion in the coming years. 

For more information check out the agenda of the Public Hearing: http://www.mapleridge.ca/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/12092014-2343.... Search for the file number: 2013-019-RZ. When you click on it it'll automatically take you to the November 17 staff report. 

You can:

• speak to Council at the Public Hearing (5 minutes per turn, 3 calls for each agenda item). You can use a Powerpoint if you like (to be submitted to Amanda Gaunt <agaunt@mapleridge.ca> by noon on Tuesday.
• send an e-mail to mayorandcouncil@mapleridge.ca before Dec. 9, 4 pm.