Victoria had a plan to mobilize the public. British Columbia's capital city has unveiled an ambitious remodeling of a major intersection, aiming to promote pedestrian and bicycle usage. At the corner of Humboldt and Douglas streets, the new Humboldt Plaza boasts safer crosswalks and bike lanes, encouraging Victorians to leave their cars at home and find healthier ways to travel. Not only is it conducive to non-vehicular travel, but it also encourages the public to relax and enjoy the community space. Modern-looking hardwood benches invite those passing through to stop and rest their feet for a while. All of these amenities surround one central feature which really has people talking: an outdoor ping-pong table. Reminiscent of Manhattan's Bryant Park, where two outdoor metal tables have attracted an unofficial table tennis club, the crown jewel of the plaza is a French-made Cornilleau all-season table tennis table. The project was the result of 1,395 survey responses, in which the public voiced a preference for table tennis over other options. After over twenty meetings and one public forum, the city proceeded with the plan, dubbed the "Douglas/Humboldt engagement process." “This project has transformed the look and feel of this waterfront corridor," according to a statement from Victoria Mayor Lisa Helps. "It has improved road safety and has brought more vibrancy to one of Victoria’s most important streets." Sarah Webb, Victoria's transportation manager, proudly stated, "We've built a new space for people to hang out and enjoy." The "Grumpy Taxpayers of Greater Victoria" (their words, not ours) were, well, grumpy about the idea. Stan Bartlett, chair of the disapproving group, is quick to paint the plaza as a symbol of all that is wrong with city spending habits. "It’s symptomatic of a council that has lost its way and, when money is no object, this is what you get... As far as a ping pong table, holy smokes,” fumed Bartlett. While the table does carry a hefty price tag of $5,150, including delivery, the funds come from federal gas taxes, not from the city budget with which Bartlett and his group of self-appointed watchdogs are ostensibly concerned. At the end of the day, Victoria has indeed succeeded in mobilizing the public. While some try mobilize a misguided rally against the city, many more will be moving as they rally back and forth across the new table.

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