Moving the proposed bike and pedestrian bridge spanning the Courtenay river to the upstream side of the 5th St. Bridge could create a real gem for the city.

If it were located across from the Florence Filberg Centre on Anderton Ave., at the narrow lawn and exercise park, and terminating at the Lewis Park walkway, it would connect five of our public facilities and their parking lots: Lewis Park, Courtenay Recreation, Florence Filberg, Sid Williams Theatre and the Native Sons Hall.

Simms Park is also easily accessible on the route under the 5th Street bridge.

An extension of the Courtenay Riverway is possible at the stairs under the 5th Street Bridge. Also, one of our most popular biking routes is over Condensory bridge via Anderton Ave. to Dove Creek and beyond. Many walkers and their dogs use the Old Orchard side of town and the bridge could also connect with East Courtenay via Ryan Rd. through Lewis Park. Since the city is demolishing the Anderton Arms apartments and the burnt out Cona hostel on Anderton Ave. and reconstructing the deteriorating river retaining walls, extensive and expensive construction will be undertaken there anyways.

A diving platform could possibly be incorporated in the bridge design so folks could jump into the river. There are already two staircases at Lewis park where almost all river users exit from. Another could possibly be incorporated in the opposite side. Condensory bridge is currently popular for unsanctioned river jumping, but is much more dangerous now that the upstream sidewalk was removed for sewer, water pipes and guardrails, as spotters can no longer watch from there to give the all clear signal that there are no incoming tubers and rafters.

The current proposal has the new bridge terminating at the commercial area of Central Builders with their busy delivery trucks and private retail parking lot. We could turn what might be a somewhat hidden folly into a jewel for residents and tourists alike.