Dear Editor,
I am not necessarily against a bridge to replace the Massey Tunnel, but I think that all the planning for it seems very poor and uncoordinated.
Lack of communication with, and input from, local councils, particularly Vancouver, Richmond and Delta, is an example.
Also, the bridge just moves the congestion up the road to the Oak Street Bridge. Where is the plan to ease the congestion getting into and out of Richmond?
We need to think long term. The planned construction should include some kind of park and ride system (with buses to start and then ultimately trains from Delta etc).
The new mall at Tsawwassen would be perfect for a terminal for ferry commuters and White Rock and Tsawwassen residents to park and then transit to the city.
This is not a pro or con issue — it is about doing it right at the beginning, consulting with the local councils and projecting into the future.
We are told to expect another million people in the region within 20-plus years. Once the bridge is done as currently planned, there will be no room for alterations.
Considerations for other modes of transportation across the bridge or through the tunnel should be incorporated at the planning stage.
We need to think about every option now, not later. I hope it is not too late.
Kris von Schalburg
Richmond
