Jack Steinke
Dear editor:
I am writing as a concerned handicapped driver and citizen.
For the past three years, I have been a regular daily visitor parking at Rainycrest. It immediately became obvious that the handicapped parking was “for the birds.”
I contacted the administrator and advised that I would be parking according to the rules as to the best of my ability. No one advised of any rules and I noted lots of illegal parking in the two handicapped parking areas.
Since the regular parking area had no ramp from its level to the entrance of the building, it became very obvious that the whole situation was not being dealt with and it has remained so until this spring, when I was advised that no ramp was being considered, however, some steps were being taken to alleviate concerns.
Designated painting was done and there were six over-sized stalls designated. And I was promised policing would occur to keep unauthorized drivers from filling them.
But the fact that there is no ramp does not seem to be their concern because of the cost (as far as we know, not yet determined). Some of us thought that was the obvious solution and were prepared to assist with the funding.
It also would be a worthwhile community-funded project!
Ramps are in evidence all across North America. In fact, you would have to look hard to find non-existence anywhere.
Meanwhile, the parking spots designated have a problem for drivers. Some of the spots where drivers have to get out of the vehicle and dismount their apparatus—walkers, canes, crutches, and wheelchairs—are very rough and not suitable for good footing because of pavement imperfections, cracks, and raises were handicapped individuals would or could slip or trip on.
Come on—is that the way you want to treat your family and friends. Remember that if they fall and break bones, etc.
A further suggestion to ease the problem would be to make the circle of traffic both ways—a two-way street. Now we are expected to park on the left side of the street.
This would allow the clock-wise parkers to use less room and get out of their vehicle safely. I know there are safety concerns so aren’t the previously mentioned concerns important?
In my three years driving daily, supposedly the wrong way or clock-wise in the circle and parking on the right side of the circle, I have observed more thoughtless happenings because of the left-handed situations.
Please be aware that I recommend this because I have driven for 65 years, without accidents, taught drivers’ training, and don’t know of any place in North America where parking on the left-handed side of the street is recommended or allowed lawfully.
Respectfully yours,
Jack Steinke
Fort Frances, Ont.
