Paul Li is a Wesbrook Place resident and PhD student in Public Health at UBC.
Q+A
What is the most important issue facing the campus neighbourhoods today?
The most significant issue facing campus neighbourhoods today is the balance between growth and sustainability. As the population increases, there is a need to manage infrastructure demands such as housing, transportation, and affordable amenities and programmes while ensuring environmental responsibility. Residents are concerned about how these expansions will affect their daily lives, including issues like noise, traffic congestion, and resource distribution. Striking the right balance between development and maintaining a high quality of life for all residents is key.
Is UBC building a livable, viable, safe, and environmentally-friendly community for residents through Campus Vision 2050? Why or why not?
Campus Vision 2050 has ambitious goals to create a livable, viable, and environmentally-friendly community, and there are positive signs of progress in many areas. Initiatives focused on sustainable building, enhancing green spaces, and reducing carbon footprints align with the vision of a future-proof community. However, some residents feel that more needs to be done in areas like affordable UBC leasehold housing (for faculty, staff, and families), traffic management, and long-term sustainability planning to ensure that these goals are met comprehensively. The vision is on the right track, but there is room for further improvement and more active community engagement to ensure it meets the needs of all stakeholders.
What is the most pressing safety issue facing the campus neighbourhoods and where would you put your focus in addressing it?
One of the most pressing safety issues in the campus neighbourhoods is traffic safety, particularly with speeding and congestion around residential and student-heavy areas. There are concerns about pedestrian safety and the effectiveness of current traffic control measures. To address this, a focus should be placed on improving road safety through enhanced traffic calming measures, stricter enforcement of speed limits, and collaboration with local authorities to monitor high-risk areas. Promoting safe and accessible transportation options, such as increased biking lanes and safer pedestrian crossings, is also essential.
How can the UNA better foster a sense of community and connection among residents?
The UNA can foster a stronger sense of community by creating more inclusive and accessible events that cater to diverse groups, such as students, long-term residents, and new immigrants. Expanding opportunities for cultural exchange, health and wellness activities, and environmental initiatives can help bring people together. In addition, encouraging open communication through regular community forums and feedback channels can ensure residents feel heard and involved in decision-making processes. This will help build a more connected, inclusive, and supportive neighbourhood.