While I support the idea of…

While I support the idea of improving and maintaining the provincial parks by either the province or town, I would like to see more emphasis placed on the following by whoever ends up owning it:

1. Traffic. I grew up in the town of Wasaga in the 70s. While I understand the need for progress and growth, the geography of the town with the river running through it and location of the Bay should be considered in any growth plan. There is only so much traffic this town can withstand and even now, with the widening of River Road W, there are long lines of traffic. With the addition of large subdivisions on all ends of town, two new high schools, Costco and now the revamp of the main end, this will only get worse. While I see the road improvements, again, there is only so much space you can allocate to roads. One lane through half the town will not cut it. There needs to be some sort of consideration of a town size limit and traffic. So the selling and allowing building on park lands will only add to this overcrowding issue.

2. Wasaga Beach is known for its water. However, it is challenging for boaters to get onto this water. Having the public launch right at the busiest section of town and right beside Nancy Island is not convenient nor is having only one launch. If Nancy Island is revamped this will put strain on the parking there.
Similarly The selling of Provincial Park 1 could jeopardize the only other launch available. While this launch could REALLY use some maintenance, I think it would be in the towns and provinces interest to have dedicated marina or launch area if this land is sold to allow easier access to the water for boaters. Collingwood despite having a small beach has three launch areas in relatively close proximity to each other. Wasaga and the Parks makes it easy for people to get to the Beach, but it does not make it easy for those who sail, boat or seadoo to access the water.

3. I am also confused as the to the sale of Beach 1. For years, both the dunes and the habitat for pipers has been a priority to the extent of restricting access to those areas. What will happen to this area if the land is sold? Will this be maintained or will it succumb to progress?

4. All the parks regardless of ownership need to upgraded and maintained washrooms. These haven't changed in 40+ years. In addition, there needs to more emphasis on keeping the parks clean with regular garbage pick ups and plenty of areas to dispose garbage properly.

Thank you!