A disregard for the environment

I am continuously disappointed by the City of Windsor's apparent lack of regard for its environment and its careless promotion of unsustainable planning practices.

The idea of a new, much-needed, health-care facility is exciting on the surface, yet dampened by its proposed location.

Having studied planning in both Canada and abroad, I have seen projects of great importance, such as those in health care, be carried out in a way that consciously benefits both people and their environment. The decision to develop a 60-acre greenfield site at a substantial distance from the city is environmentally irresponsible and short-sighted.

The cost to support infrastructure alone at such a remote location should be an immediate deterrent to the proposed site.

Pair this with the requirement to develop new roads, adequate transportation networks and the development's impact to our “urban heat island” effect; each of which is a factor lacking adequate consideration. The city is very aware of alternative sites much less detrimental to our environment. Aside from the City of Windsor already shaping up to manifest a poor reputation in the name of planning, it is clear my generation (Millennials and Gen Z) have already been plagued with the consequences of poor decision-making.

Decisions surrounding hospitals with long lifetimes should always be regarded through a lens of sustainable development.

Sustainable development attempts to meet the needs of the current generation without compromising those of future generations. Madelaine Schmidt, Windsor