A national treasure

Re: City chooses collision course over LRT, July 11.

I can’t believe the arrogance of the transportation committee. Right from the day one, the National Capital Commission and its board of directors have made it clear that the rail line must be buried on the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway. Chairman Russell Mills has said “the Parkway belongs to all Canadians.”

I call it a national treasure. It is a beautiful drive into downtown with the grass, trees, birds and of course the many views of the Ottawa River. One might be forgiven for thinking that the western route for the LRT would have been established early on into the proposal. Instead we are faced with establishing the western route, at the end of the process.

Why is it the transportation committee of the City of Ottawa feels it can dictate to a federal agency? With millions of taxpayers money committed to light rail already, perhaps we could spend more and not despoil this beautiful drive.

HELEN PICKARD,

Ottawa