This will come as no surprise to any of you but North Shore traffic is among the very worst in Metro Vancouver, according to a study by the Mobility Pricing Independent Commission.
The commission is now trying to gauge how Lower Mainland drivers would feel about paying a few bucks to drive during rush hour if it meant they could do it without the traffic jams.
Studies have found mobility pricing has worked in both London and Stockholm but, politically, it will be a tough sell here.
“I already pay enough tax” is a common refrain from John Q. Public. And that’s when we’re talking about how we might want to pay for new services or infrastructure. This is asking people to pay to use something they’ve already bought and paid for.
Some will argue this is simply a punitive tax that will be levied on those who commute the farthest – people who already have the fewest transportation alternatives and the least disposable income.
Others will argue this will mean less time on the road and more time at home with family, which you can’t put a price on. It’s a complex issue.
But here’s what we do know: Something has to change. Up to now, our solution has been building bigger bridges and wider highways. But anyone who’s driven in Toronto can tell you that adding 16 lanes of highway doesn’t get you home 16 times faster. It just fills the space up with 16 times more cars.
Fundamentally we’re being asked what’s worth more, our money or our time? You can let the commission know how you feel at itstimemv.ca
What are your thoughts? Send us a letter via email by clicking here or post a comment below.
