I have been a resident of Surrey for just over six years and I really appreciate the city’s commitment to providing comprehensive community services.
I especially have enjoyed the indoor track at the Guildford Recreation Centre. The indoor track has protected me from the elements and provided a safe environment for my 6 a.m. runs.
Unfortunately, I will no longer use this service/infrastructure. Up until November, the cost was $2.75 between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday to Friday. Now the discount is applied only between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. and is $6.75 at all other times.
I’ve always paid the discounted price between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m. I do have a problem with the price being time-restricted considering the maintenance is low on this “equipment,” and frankly, is not utilized as much as other equipment and services.
I have been told that as of January 2013, there will be no “discount” at all. I think this is quite shameful. Essentially, the organization has increased the cost for infrastructure that requires very little maintenance.
I will now risk the elements and my safety because the City of Surrey has created accessibility issues with this price change. How does the city expect residents of low socio-economic status to pay for this? Studies have shown that families of low socio-economic status have poorer health outcomes compared with other income groups. The City of Surrey is now part of the problem.
Ana Fisic, Surrey