Dear editor,I have heard of proposed plans for renovating Courtenay City Hall.I would like to propose an addition to this work.The City of Courtenay is very commendably working towards lowering our carbon footprint (20 per cent by 2020). These targets, of much less carbon used per person, can be helped a lot by lowering our car trips by increasing our trips by bike.I have been attempting to do just that. However, I have had two bikes stolen in Courtenay. I also find it difficult, during a sleeting southeast wind, to load my groceries on my bike (when I have one).I would like to propose an addition to City Hall of a large covered, lighted, bike lockup area. This would protect my bike (and others) from theft, as well as provide protection while I load it before returning home.The bike lockup area could also have washrooms, a shower and a change room for those riding to work who need to dress for their job, perhaps even a place to recharge bike batteries.Since bus tickets are already sold at City Hall, bikes easily fit on city buses, and the bus routes are close by, this bike lockup would link with the bus routes as well. There are three excellent bike shops within the downtown core for repairs and sales of standard and electric bikes.Bikes would be parked, safe and dry with charged batteries in a central location. I am willing to venture that people would be willing to pay a monthly fee for this service. Perhaps the bike clubs would be willing to organize this project and contribute to the organizing of the fee.I think the project would pay for itself before long just by reducing road congestion, parking lot congestion, accidents, air and noise pollution, and, of course, lower carbon emissions.People would gladly pay for this ($10 to $15 per month). It could be organized through the bike clubs.As a long-term goal, I also see a walking bridge that would have bike access, across the Courtenay River from the bottom of Sixth Street to Simms Park, away from the narrow Fifth Street Bridge.This would link the present River Walk to Simms Park and be very attractive to tourists. It would also promote walking and biking from and to the downtown from those living across the river.With a bike lockup at City Hall, it would encourage people to bike to the downtown shops, hotels, theatre, and restaurants, especially if there was a bike path across the former Farquharson Farm from East Courtenay.I believe that we will soon be able to take bikes on the train. Visitors could come with their bikes and have a safe central lockup while exploring his area.I would also like to see a proper bike path linking the One-Spot trail to the downtown streets, since at present it is very dangerous biking or walking on the side of Condensory Road from Cessford Road to the Condensory Bridge. That route has become very busy with vehicle traffic since the Inland Highway link through Piercy Road.Those living in that area regularly use this route, those who would actively utilize the bike lockup at City Hall.Sue Grout,Courtenay