The Victoria Airport Authority and presumptive Gateway developer (Omicron) have it all wrong!
With the planned expansion of YYJ runways to handle not just more transcontinental aircraft but trans-oceanic carriers for the non-stop European, Asian and South Pacific carriers, speculation of what should be built on the corner of the highway and Beacon Avenue is, at the least short sighted.
A truly international airport that YYJ aspires to be needs an airport hotel and attractions.
I posit that the much talked about second area casino be anchored with the hotel. To attract and entertain our international travelers, I can further anticipate a water park with a marine life and “swim with acrobatic dolphins” component, illuminated dancing water fountains and a linear, rather than vertical, state-of-art roller coaster (not compromising airport height restrictions).
For the amusement of local residents, install and integrate a go-cart track and a practice ‘round about, “crop circle”, traffic calming intersection (like the McTavish interchange) to enter and leave the highway. A ski hill-type gondola or zip line could transport our visiting guests up and down Beacon Avenue.
The mind boggles at the possibilities!
The roar of huge arriving and departing aircraft, above our lovely town of Sidney, is going to compromise any current peace and marginal quietness we now tolerate in the name of progress.
Wading into the future of noise and congestion, why be content with simply more un-needed retail space when a world-class visitor and entertainment venue should be planned.
To the VAA and developer, I say, think outside of the box(es) and go really big or go home.
Richard Ludwig
Sidney