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October 3 , 2004
Lynda Moffat on the West Regional Road
As I go door to door, I hear many residents express their concern that the West Regional Road may not be built. In fact their first question to me is often, “Do you support the West Regional Road?” I am pleased to confirm that I have always been a strong supporter of the West Regional Road and feel that it is unfortunate we are not yet driving on it today.
As past president of the Chamber of Commerce, I strongly supported the West Regional Road in its present alignment, and encouraged City Council to proceed with its construction as quickly as possible. When I became a City Councilor I continued to actively pursue the construction of the West Regional Road. However, at the same time, I fully recognized the need to balance the growth of our city with the protection of our environment, and I worked hard to establish the City’s first Environmental Committee, which I now Chair. While I know that we must remain committed to moving the road completion forward with all possible urgency, I am also committed to respecting our environment and to preserving Big Lake and its surrounding wetlands for all to enjoy. The present alignment for the West Road provides this balance.
Another initiative that I recently put forward to City Council, and which I will continue to pursue as your Mayor, is to work in partnership with the Province and our surrounding communities to establish the Big Lake area as a Provincial Park. This would further assist in protecting the future of Big Lake while encouraging many residents of St. Albert and the surrounding area to enjoy the beauty and nature that Big Lake offers.
I know the cost of the West Regional Road is something that concerns many of us. It is my plan to work with the Province in designating the West Regional Road as Highway 2, which will result in the Province assuming responsibility for its construction and ongoing maintenance.
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