Riverfront beacon will be an eyesore

Re: Developer to meet with concerned residents, by Brian Cross, Nov. 17

I am glad to see that city council is at least deferring its decision for the rezoning of a proposed building project off of University Avenue West.

As Coun. Rino Bortolin stated: “I'm all for the development ... but obviously it does have to fit in and not have a negative impact on the surrounding neighbourhood.”

The neighbours in that area are upset about losing the incredible view of sunsets over the Ambassador Bridge and about problems with parking.

I wish city council would have given the same consideration to the residents on Riverside Drive West who will be losing their view of the scenic riverfront park by erecting a building that will be between seven to nine feet above the crown of Riverside Drive just to house the streetcar.

Instead, we will be able to see a black wall.

So much for keeping the beauty of sightlines that are pleasant and green.

Esthetically, the proportions of the proposed beacon will also be unsightly and would take away from the beauty of the park's surroundings.

The vote by city council on the beacon was pushed through during a virtual meeting, making sure residents were not able to attend to protest against the streetcar being down at the riverfront.

If the beacon goes ahead, there will also be many more parking issues during the summer. We hope the residents of Elm Street and the surrounding area for the University Avenue development have a better solution to their concerns.

John & Dorothy D'angelo, Windsor