Concerns regarding the route chosen for the proposed new Torbay by-pass road.
While most Torbay residents fully support the construction of this road, we have to question why two kilometers of Torbay Rd will be made into a five lane higway. We feel the better route would be to start the by-pass road at the boundary of St. John's, near the airport turnoff on Torbay Rd, by-passing the 'entire' town.
There are six side roads and 30 driveways, representing 214 residential homes that will be affected by the current proposed route through Torbay. There is a fear that lawns, properties and trees will be taken during the construction process, leaving a five lane highway at the front door of residents. There are also concerns about the traffic and congestion delays during construction.
Also, there is an 'extreme' concern regarding the safety of many of Torbay's school children who will be required to cross five lanes of traffic, at their bus stops, throughout the school year.
Hundreds of residents from Torbay to Pouch cove have signed a petition that is being presented to the House of Assembly asking government to re-evaluate the route for the first two kilometres of this road.
Under questioning by the Opposition in the House of Assembly, the Minister of Transportatino and works confirmed that an environmental process must be completed before any construction can take place and no start date has been confirmed. We are hopeful that this will provide an opportunity for our concerns to be heard and ask government to have another look at the proposed route.
We invite anyone with concerns to add your name to this petition. We are hopeful that a public meeting can be organized in the very near future to ensure everyone has an opportunity for input before any final decisions are made.
Thank you for your support and interest.
You can sign the petition, in person, at the following locations:
Capetown Convenience - Shoe Cove
D & L Convenience - Pouch Cove
Wilkinsons Convenience - Flatrock
Needs Convenience - Torbay
