Quote:
Originally Posted by Dmajackson
Before I post on this topic I should mention that I am an active member of the Sackville Rivers Association (SRA), a former director, and good friends with Walter Regan.
As for my opinion I strongly believe that Sawmill River should be daylighted. The stream would not only increase the aesthetic appeal of Downtown Dartmouth but it would also provide a gathering spot for nearby residents with plenty of passive recreational potential. The increased property values would be a nice side effect and turning the Trans Canada Trail into a major greenway would increase civic pride.
The SRA has overseen some daylighting projects out in Sackville and I can say that they have made a noticeable impact in their immediate area even if most people don't know about them.
If this is done well I think Halifax Water should look into daylighting a portion of Freshwater Creek from the Public Gardens down to the redeveloped VG parking lot.
|
The property values in downtown have increased significantly because it was undervalued for decades. We got rid of many rooming houses by ensuring that welfare recipients were housed in decent properties, not with slum landlords who had bought into the area in the 70's hoping to make a quick buck from all the blather about 'rejuvenation' aka knock-em-down-and-build-apartments.
Downtown is popular because older properties are available, no worries about sitting in traffic jams, closeness to bus & ferry and plenty of green space.
If HRM has money to spend on making the area more attractive I am sure a new P-9 school to replace the 50+ year old Bicentennial School would be a major attraction for families, and families, unlike seniors, spend more money in the local economy. Schools don't exist at City Hall, they hate sending money to the school board - that is provincial jurisdiction, whereas spending money on a stadium is municipal jurisdiction. Go figure.
Property values will continue to increase without the expenditure at the Starr site. We could sell our house tomorrow if we were so inclined, any agent will tell you they have clients lined up to buy homes in the area (does not apply to King's Wharf)