Dear Editor
In attending the allcandidates' meeting at Ridgeway school on Nov. 5, it was clear all candidates are in favour of better transit. But there is a split on the issue of increased density in the city.
The problem? Increases in density are needed for better transit service. On TransLink's website, they discuss the need for denser communities within a short walk of transit service routes. Specifically: "The higher density of homes, jobs and other activities creates a market for transit, allowing frequent service to operate more efficiently."
So folks wanting better SeaBus service, more frequent bus service, and indeed a solid rationale for keeping the bus depot on the North Shore may want to consider the role of increased density to justify the need for such services. And consider how the city needs to compete for TransLink services with other Lower Mainland areas that are growing more quickly.
And for all the folks not taking transit? Well, just think about how much better your drive will be with everyone else taking transit, which is why all the car drivers out there may also want to consider the importance of transit - and increasing density next to transit corridors - when they vote on Nov. 15.
Don McDowall
North Vancouver
