The Editor,
Re. “PCT piledriving problem for some in PoMo” (The Tri-City News, Aug. 21).
Dear Pacific Coast Terminal,
I live in Port Moody in a small neighbourhood of 30 townhouses. Living in such a great city, I am fortunate that I work from a home office. I am also president of our strata council, so am also sending this email on behalf of our community.
Your first thought is likely, “Oh great, another home office complaint.” While I hope to ensure you understand the impact of this summer’s piledriving, I also offer a potential solution to make amends with the community. You have worked hard to keep the noise between specific daytime hours but for those who work from home, it has as much impact as if it were happening overnight.
When the piledriving began, I attempted to keep my windows all closed to soften the noise. Unfortunately, this didn’t make a difference, and once the heat climbed, it wasn’t an option. After numerous conference calls answering the question “What’s that noise/banging?” the team on the other end of the line requested I find an alternate location to work. As a result, I’ve had to spend significant time and money loitering in public office space or Starbucks.
To say the least, my productivity has declined significantly and I’m entering the fall having accomplished far less than usual. This may not seem significant but when it’s noticeable to others and affects my job performance, it matters a great deal to me.
The last few weeks have coincided with my return to graduate school, requiring a great deal of pre-course reading. This has been virtually impossible to do within the Port Moody area, again requiring me to adjust schedules around the piledriving noise.
I don’t like to complain and not offer solutions but since the work is almost over, at this stage, there is little that can be done. To make amends, what about hosting an appreciation for Port Moody residents at Rocky Point at the PCT grandstand? You could require people to show Port Moody ID to attend and invite our three local breweries to be on site, who as your immediate neighbours I’m sure would appreciate the gesture as well. Combined with local music and entertainment, this could be a nice way to show your understanding for the tolerance the community has displayed.
And next time, perhaps do something to reach out to your neighbours up front? Maybe PCT-branded ear plugs?
Laura Watson, Port Moody
