Tag: Civic Engagement

Vanishing No Parking Signs in Parc-Extension: A Closer Look at Community Concerns

Post author By Pierre
Post date September 21, 2023

The "No parking" signs at Parc-Extension, temporarily removed during recent events, sparking community controversy.

Unveiling the Mystery: Vanishing No Parking Signs Stir Controversy in Parc-Extension

A Closer Look at the Disappearing No Parking Signs and Their Impact on the Community

Introduction:

Montreal’s Parc-Extension neighborhood remains at the center of an impassioned debate regarding proposed changes that involve the elimination of parking spots and the expansion of bike lanes. This ongoing dispute recently escalated during a Villeray-Saint-Michel-Parc-Extension borough council meeting, prompting the need for police intervention. The core of the issue revolves around the ambitious plan to redesign two bike lanes on Querbes and Ball avenues, which would result in the removal of 250 parking spaces. In this article, we will explore the latest developments that have left the community bewildered.

Vanishing No Parking Signs:

In the continuing saga of Montreal’s Parc-Extension neighborhood and its battle over proposed bike lanes and parking spaces, a recent turn of events has left residents perplexed and frustrated. The sudden appearance and disappearance of no parking signs along certain streets have raised numerous questions. This development has amplified existing concerns about transparency, fairness, and the treatment of marginalized communities that hold differing views from their elected officials.

Residents of Parc-Extension were taken aback when they realized that the stretch of streets from Querbes and Liege to Jean-Talon and Querbes was devoid of no parking signs on a Tuesday night. This unexpected occurrence left many puzzled, especially considering the intense debate surrounding changes to the neighborhood’s bike lanes and parking infrastructure. Initially, the community believed that the mayor had reconsidered and would finally listen to their concerns, seeking an alternative solution that better accommodates all parties involved.

However, on Wednesday, the no-parking signs reappeared, only to be taken down again Wednesday night. Residents parked their cars and went to sleep, only to wake up to find their cars ticketed or towed.

No parking sign – Park-Extension

Emergence of Evidence:

As news of the missing no parking signs spread, concerned residents provided evidence that painted a troubling picture. It became evident that city workers, accompanied by a police escort, had returned in the early hours of the morning to reinstall the no parking signs. This raised a critical question: How can individuals be penalized for parking in good faith when the signs designating the parking restrictions were temporarily absent?

Community Concerns:

The controversy surrounding the removal and subsequent reinstallation of the no parking signs has incited outrage among Parc-Extension residents. Many individuals within the neighborhood’s marginalized communities feel that their voices and concerns are being disregarded by elected officials determined to push through their agenda, regardless of opposition.

The removal of the signs, even if temporary, raises questions about the transparency and fairness of the decision-making process. It also calls into question whether residents who hold different views from their elected representatives are being treated unfairly or discriminatorily.

Transparency and Civic Engagement:

The events surrounding the missing no parking signs underscore the importance of transparency and civic engagement in local decision-making. Residents are increasingly advocating for a more inclusive process that considers the diverse needs and concerns of the community.

The city towed cars 4 hours after placing no parking signs

As the debate over bike lanes and parking spaces continues, it is essential to ensure that all voices are heard, respected, and treated fairly. The removal and subsequent reinstallation of parking restrictions without adequate communication or warning raise concerns about the treatment of marginalized communities in the decision-making process.

Are city officials attempting to penalize residents for standing up for themselves, or are residents fed up with the authoritarian actions of elected officials and resorting to acts of dissent by removing the signs? Regardless, the responsibility lies with the mayor’s office for mistreating this marginalized community within the district. At the very least, all tickets need to be revoked, and citizens need to be compensated for any inconvenience they have endured.

A solution that respects the rights of all community members:

The mystery of the vanishing no parking signs in Parc-Extension serves as a reminder of the need for open, transparent, and fair governance. As residents grapple with the evolving situation, it is crucial for elected officials to address these concerns and work toward a solution that respects the rights and perspectives of all community members.

The story of the missing signs is far from over, and it underscores the ongoing challenges of balancing the interests and views of a diverse community. In the spirit of democracy, it is essential to ensure that no one feels marginalized or discriminated against for expressing their opinions, and that all voices are given equal consideration in shaping the future of Parc-Extension.

Police issued tickets 4 hours after placing signs prohibiting parking

A Call for Mayor Lalonde to Reflect on Her Actions:

Many residents of Parc-Extension are now calling upon Mayor Laurence Lavigne Lalonde to pause, take a moment to look at herself in the mirror, and reflect on her actions throughout this contentious issue. It is essential for elected officials to represent and work for the benefit of all constituents, not just a select few.

If Mayor Lalonde had taken the necessary steps to find a solution that accommodated a larger number of her constituents, particularly those from visible minority groups, much of the strife and division that has plagued the community could have been averted. Instead, her insistence on pushing through the changes without adequate consideration for the concerns and needs of a significant portion of the community is seen by many as reprehensible.

Mayor Lalonde has an opportunity to reevaluate her stance and take steps towards fostering unity, inclusivity, and equitable representation for all residents of Parc-Extension. The hope is that she will choose a path that respects the diversity of voices within the community and seeks a fair resolution to the ongoing debate.

Tags Civic Engagement, Community Concerns, Marginalized Communities, No Parking Signs, Transparency, Urban Governance

Blog Civic Engagement Community Engagement Neighborhoods Parking Concerns Urban Development

Unity in Action: Park-Extension Residents Join Forces to Tackle a Shared Challenge

Post author By Pierre
Post date September 20, 2023

Concerned Citizens of Park-Extension Unite Against Parking Woes

One Common Concern

In the vibrant neighborhood of Park-Extension, a close-knit community of residents has recently come together in response to a significant concern: the impending rearrangement of streets that would eliminate a considerable amount of street parking. These residents are deeply attached to their neighborhood and are unwilling to see it transformed without a fight. In this blog post, we will explore the passionate actions and sentiments of these concerned citizens as they rally to protect their beloved Park-Extension.

A Community Mobilizes

It all began with a few concerned citizens noticing “no parking” signs cropping up along Querbes Street. An urgent message was shared in a community group, sparking a wave of concern and mobilization. People were quick to chime in, expressing their worry and frustration over the situation.

Community Gathering

A call to action was made for a community gathering at Howard Park, a significant hub in Park-Extension. The goal was clear: to unite residents and discuss the impending changes. The message was spread amongst friends, with an emphasis on the importance of participation before winter arrived.

Organizing for a Cause

As the gathering neared, discussions within the community turned to strategies and organization. There were calls for awareness campaigns, the sharing of information to garner more support, and even creative ideas such as a peaceful protest. The residents were determined to make their voices heard.

Facing Uncertainty

While some residents were eager to participate, others found themselves unable to attend due to scheduling conflicts. Still, they expressed their support and willingness to stay updated on the progress of the movement.

Resisting Change

The signs indicated that the city planned to update Querbes Avenue, including the rearrangement of the existing bike lanes. Residents feared the loss of parking spaces and voiced their concerns that the changes would negatively impact their lives and worsen security for cyclists.

Unity in Numbers

All concerned wanted to resist the coming changes. They discussed different actions they could take. In response to fears of towing and fines, the community came together to discourage anyone from moving their cars, hoping to demonstrate the impracticality of towing all vehicles. They emphasized the importance of solidarity in their battle against the changes.

Rumors and Misinformation

Amidst the chaos, rumors and misinformation spread, causing confusion within the community. Residents grappled with conflicting reports about which side of the street would lose parking spaces.

Taking Matters Into Their Own Hands

Frustration led some to consider resisting any proposed rearrangement until they could consult the studies that recommended these changes on their community. The idea of disrupting the elected officials plans by preventing work from commencing gained traction.

Seeking Support

The residents of Park-Extension felt that their concerns were not adequately addressed by city officials. They sought allies in neighboring communities, believing that collective pressure could force the city to reconsider their plans.

Protecting the Neighborhood

The concerned citizens of Park-Extension are facing a significant challenge in their efforts to preserve their neighborhood’s character. Their unity, determination, and creative ideas are a testament to their love for their community. The fight to secure the existing bike paths and protect their parking spaces and the essence of Park-Extension continues, as they hope for a solution that benefits everyone involved.

Tags Civic Engagement, Community Mobilization, Grassroots Activism, Neighborhood Solidarity, Neighborhood Unity, Park-Extension, Parking Issues, Street Reconfiguration, Urban Transformation

Blog Community Engagement Local Governance Montreal Blog News Politics Transportation Transportation Urban Planning

The Battle Over Parking Spaces vs. Bike Lanes: Park Ex Residents Demand a Voice

Post author By Pierre
Post date September 17, 2023

Petros Nikolantonakis - advocates for Montrealers living with a visual impairment

Navigating the Controversy: Park Ex Residents Fight for a Say in Urban Change

In a recent borough council meeting in Montreal’s Parc-Extension neighborhood, tensions reached a boiling point as residents gathered to voice their concerns about the removal of 250 parking spaces to make way for revamped bike lanes on Querbes Avenue. This contentious debate has been simmering since an information session in June, and it reflects deeper issues of representation and community change in this densely populated neighborhood.

A Flashpoint in a Diverse Community

Parc-Extension, often referred to as Park Ex, is a diverse and rapidly changing community. The decision to remove parking spaces and prioritize bike lanes has become a flashpoint in this neighborhood, where residents often feel unheard by officials. The heated meeting saw attendees expressing their frustrations, and some even had to be escorted out.

Zubeda Khan, a longtime resident and mother of four, was among those who raised concerns about how this change would affect her family’s two vehicles. She felt that her lifestyle, which involves numerous appointments and errands for her family of six, was being disregarded. This sentiment was shared by many residents who rely on cars for their daily lives.

A Neighborhood Divided

While some residents argue that the focus on bike lanes is neglecting the needs of families and elderly residents, others believe it’s a step in the right direction for a greener and safer community. Borough Mayor Laurence Lavigne Lalonde defended the decision, stating that half of Park Ex’s population does not use cars, and bike lanes occupy only two percent of the roadways. However, environmental advocates argue that parking takes up nearly 30 percent of the neighborhood’s space. The revamped bike lanes are expected to improve safety for cyclists by creating physical barriers between bikes and cars, but the trade-off is the loss of parking spaces that many residents rely on.

Many residents of Parc-Extension are deeply upset about what they perceive as outsiders, including elected officials, imposing their ideas on the community without seeking their input through a vote. In this close-knit neighborhood, where residents often share a strong sense of belonging and a desire for self-determination, the feeling of being unheard in decisions that directly affect their daily lives has intensified frustrations. They argue that decisions of such magnitude, like the removal of parking spaces and the introduction of bike lanes, should involve meaningful community engagement and consultation. This sentiment underscores the broader issue of representation and the desire for residents to have a say in shaping the future of their beloved Park Ex.

The Human Impact

The debate isn’t just about statistics; it’s about the real-life impact on residents like Matilda Ramacieri, a disabled woman whose reserved parking space will be moved due to the bike lane changes. Her son, Marco Paredes-Ramacieri, expressed concerns about her safety during the winter months. These concerns highlight the very real consequences that some residents will face as a result of these changes.

Moreover, an anonymous first responder reported that the time it takes to reach someone in need and transport them to the hospital has been increasing over the years due to these changes. Tragically, the responder mentioned losing patients because of delays caused by navigating the new infrastructure.

Additional Concerns: Accessibility and Safety

Certain residents in the area, including a blind man named Petros Nikolantonakis and a seasoned taxi driver with over 2 million kilometers under his belt, have raised pressing concerns about the safety and accessibility of the revamped streets.

Petros, a blind resident that lives in neighborhood, and advocates for Montrealers living with a visual impairment, highlighted the danger faced by visually impaired individuals when exiting vehicles and having to navigate through bike lanes to reach the sidewalk. Petros went on to say that the residents of Park-Extension were invited to an informal information meeting and the decision was simply imposed on the burough residents without public consultation.

Petros safety concern was echoed by the experienced taxi driver who pointed out the challenges of assisting elderly passengers who struggle to walk even a short distance through a bike lane before reaching the sidewalk. The taxi driver emphasized that taking these passengers to a safer location was often impractical due to the layout of the streets and the long walk back to their destination.

Exploring Potential Avenues for Park Ex Residents

Drawing Lessons from Terrebonne Street in NDG

Residents of Park Ex facing the heated debate over parking spaces versus bike lanes might find valuable lessons in the experiences of other Montreal boroughs, particularly Côte-des-Neiges-Notre-Dame-de-Grâce (NDG). In NDG, a contentious bike path on Terrebonne Street stirred significant controversy, leading to its removal after widespread complaints, including a 2,000-signature petition. It’s a testament to the power of community engagement and the responsiveness of elected officials to citizens’ concerns.

In the Terrebonne Street case, borough councillors Lionel Perez and Marvin Rotrand took action after listening to citizens’ complaints and prepared a motion for council presentation, resulting in the removal of the bike path. This highlights that residents have the ability to voice their concerns and influence decisions. Park Ex residents may consider engaging their elected officials in a similar manner to address their concerns and seek a compromise that aligns with the needs of their community.

Seeking Solutions Amidst Unheard Concerns

The additional concerns that have come to light during this contentious problem that has the residents upset has laid bare the potential safety hazards and accessibility issues that some residents, especially those with disabilities or limited mobility, may encounter as a result of the changes. As the debate rages on in Park Ex, it remains to be seen whether a compromise can be reached that addresses these pressing concerns while balancing the community’s evolving needs.

As the debate continues to unfold in Park Ex, with residents expressing their frustration and concerns, it becomes increasingly evident that a significant portion of the community feels marginalized and unheard in decisions that directly impact their lives. Moreover, it appears that politicians have zero concern about this problem, which underscores the urgency for meaningful community engagement and dialogue to bridge the gap between the proposed changes and the needs and voices of the residents who call Park Ex their home.

Tags Bike Lanes, Civic Engagement, Community Voice, Montreal, Park Ex, Parking Spaces