To the Editor:

On June 29, the newly renovated Creston and District Community Complex and indoor pools were opened to the public. The new pools are very impressive and will be enjoyed by many.

In 1980, I was the chair of the grounds committee and was very aware of the fact that when this property was donated to our community it was designated as a park. The recreation centre, along with the outdoor pool, were to be the only facilities in the park. The original plan was that there would be access from the north and south end of the property for pedestrians, cyclists and cars.

I am very disappointed with the landscaping on the west side of our new building. We now have two flights of stairs, one at each end of the building. We all know that stairs are very dangerous. Other public stairways in Creston have had to be covered so that in the winter they do not become slippery, and the stairway at the courthouse has been closed. I understand that the building came in under budget, so why couldn't a path without the stairs have been a priority? I respect the fact that a committee was involved with the design of our new facility, but was it consulted on the landscaping?

Did anyone consider the restricted vehicle access to this beautiful building? Now vehicles leaving the recreation centre after a busy event such as graduation can only exit onto Canyon Street, which causes a traffic jam. What would happen if we have a major emergency and multiple vehicles need to enter and leave the recreation centre?

Audrey Vance

Creston