Dear Editor:
Re: Bridges to Sunshine Coast Plan Examined, Oct. 24 news story.
The Sunshine Coast’s actual population is much closer to 50,000 (+10 to 15,000 seasonal residents). The 30,000 figure mentioned in your article represents only the lower Sunshine Coast.
Also, North Shore residents need to know one very important fact about the $2-billion price tag for the new Langdale bridge crossing: Running the ferries over 30 years, with all associated costs involved, is estimated to cost more than $2 billion anyway. The extra economic activity generated from a bridge crossing would more than make up any possible differences.
Within the next 10 years, the price of a vehicle and driver is estimated to reach $100 ferry return. A $40/return bridge toll, for example, is obviously a much more reasonable price to pay.
The ferries also contribute to the congestion problems on the Upper Levels highway. Up to 360 cars are unloaded all at once, usually at peak hours, onto the North Shore. A 24-hour crossing could distribute vehicles more evenly.
And, of course, a reliable transit system could be provided, which would allow many more people an opportunity to leave their vehicles behind. Buses could be exempt from paying the toll.
The Sunshine Coast is not an island and has a population greater than that of West Vancouver. Right now it’s turning into one big massive retirement community lacking much-needed younger families. Pender Harbour secondary is now at critically low enrolment numbers. A new bridge crossing would help allow for more families to move up to the Coast (and provide more affordable housing at the same time).
John Schleimer
North Vancouver
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