The proposed design of a new public works garage in Perth.
After facing a packed gallery last month with delegations demanding a new location for a new environmental services shop (public works garage), staff provided an update to council’s committee on June 9th.
Neighbours of the existing facility opposed building the new facility next to the existing one at 15 Sunset Blvd, citing environmental, traffic, noise, and safety concerns.
Staff provided details on alternative municipally-owned sites including 16 Conlon Drive, North Street, the property behind A&B Ford, the industrial park, Craig and Provost Streets across from Algonquin College, and Smith Drive. Most would require additional funds due to lack of servicing and/or brown-field clean-up.
The industrial park and Conlon Drive sites would reduce opportunities for private employment-lands development and reduced recreational space respectively.
Councillors visited those sites and reviewed the financial implications each brought to the table. Staff confirmed that the Sunset Blvd build would meet RVCA requirements for environmental protection, and reduce noise levels by providing more indoor space for fleet servicing. They also noted that dust would be reduced by paving all truck traffic areas.
Council’s committee unanimously approved sending the project out to tender and reaffirmed their commitment to constructing the facility next to the existing on on Sunset.
Story by Brian Turner
