Editor:
Over a 30-year span, building a Langdale bridge crossing will not cost more than continuing with the ferry system.
Sure, the initial cost to build the crossing is in the $2 billion to $2.5 billion range. But continuing to run the ferries will cost at least as much over that period of time when you factor all costs involved. And don’t forget, it is estimated that within the next 10 years the fare for a vehicle and driver will be $100.
Also, a fixed link would be accessible 24 hours a day. And it would be a superior economic revenue generator compared to the ferry system. At $40 for a return toll, it would keep growth at a moderate level. Remember – as a daily commuter, someone is unlikely to move to the Coast and pay a $40 toll when they can continue for another 15 or 20 minutes up Highway 99 and live in Squamish or Brackendale and pay nothing. Those who do move to the Sunshine Coast could be encouraged to use public transit, which could be exempt from tolls. Another thing: when the ferry unloads 300+ cars all at once, it can be more of a problem than a 24-hour connection that spreads the traffic out much more evenly.
With more economic activity generated with a fixed link, the Coast would get more of the amenities it has been asking for. Everything from new and better roads to education and health care could be provided with the additional revenue. And these families would benefit from more reasonable housing costs.
And we all know the Coast’s demographics are moving to a more unworkable situation with a large influx of retirees. We need more young families to move up to the Coast. A fixed link crossing will certainly encourage that.
One final note: if the Coast had a Langdale bridge built 40 years ago and the government threatened to replace it with ferries, there would be riots all over the Sunshine Coast.
Let real political leadership begin and get this crossing built now.
John Schleimer, Garden Bay
