The Editor,
Re: "Other options are possible," Letters, July 8.
To help ensure that the airlines serving Vancouver International Airport can operate effectively, they require access to a reliable and competitively-priced fuel supply, including from off-shore sources.
Fuel deliveries from both local and offshore sources would amount to between three and five barges and Panamax tankers (not supertankers) transiting the Fraser River each month, while eliminating all tanker truck traffic currently delivering fuel to YVR.
The option of a pipeline connecting YVR to the Cherry Point refinery in Washington State would consist of over 75 kilometres of new pipeline traversing several municipalities and many more residential communities than the current proposal. Further, it is not clear how this option would improve access to offshore fuel supplies or how to receive, store, and dispense the fuel to YVR in a costeffective manner.
Fires, earthquakes and spills are discussed in our application for an environmental assessment certificate. We are continuing to refine our mitigation strategies and other commitments through exchanges with the regulating authorities.
The project is currently undergoing a rigorous environmental assessment process that will ensure the project provides a safe and environmentally responsible solution.
Adrian Pollard
Project Director, Vancouver Airport Fuel Facilities Corporation
