VIA should have consulted residents before removing natural sound barrier

I was disappointed to learn about the way in which the natural sound barrier, protecting residents from the sights and sounds of the railroad track that runs through the community of Pine Glen, was abruptly removed one morning in late August (see video).

If you haven’t heard, Via Rail removed the natural vegetation that grew up along the side of the railroad track and which separated the residential homes that back on to the track from the sights and sounds that the track generates. They did this in order to put up a chain link fence to help improve safety.

Unfortunately, Via Rail did not inform the residents of Pine Glen until after work had begun. A little late to ensure residents’ concerns were being considered.

Improving safety is always an important concern, nevertheless, it’s the way in which this event was handled and the end result that has local residents, quite rightly, up in arms.

While I’m not completely surprised that Via Rail opted to apologize after the fact, rather than consult with the community before they started clear cutting in residents’ backyards, this is, unfortunately, another example of the lack of respect that is being shown to residents and communities in the City of Ottawa.

There is no legitimate reason why the Glens Community Association was not informed or consulted before this project began. The answer that Via Rail came up with to solve the safety issue is not only a half measured solution but it completely ignores the impact this decision will have on the lives of local residents or the value of their homes.

Surely, the fence could have been installed without the complete destruction of the trees and shrubs which formed a natural sound barrier and provided a home for wildlife. Having traveled extensively in Europe by train, I can tell you that I have seen many security fences either adorned with vegetation or located behind natural vegetation. It is possible to do both.

As City Councillor for Ward 9: Knoxdale-Merivale, these are the types of things that I will work hard to prevent from happening in the future. By being proactive, identifying potential problem issues before they happen and engaging all concerned stakeholders upfront, I believe we can find solutions that will be mutually beneficial to everyone.

I will support the Glens Community Association's efforts to push Via Rail to do something to mitigate the sound problem they have just created, if the community association decides to go that route. And, if Via Rail refuses to do the right thing, the residents of the Glens can count on me to fight for a proper resolution to this issue.