Editor:
This past weekend was the first big post-pandemic test for BC Ferries on the Sunshine Coast. By all reports traffic cleared nicely from Langdale on Sunday with the 12 sailings. Monday was similarly busy. The same can’t be said for the reduced Tuesday/Wednesday schedule and its impact on those travellers heading to the Coast on June 29 & 30.
BC Ferries offered to conduct a Route 3 trial system this summer for the Coast. Unfortunately, it was cancelled due to feedback from many. This trial system may have been helpful and avoided congestion in Horseshoe Bay on June 29 & 30.
Transportation to and from the Coast has been problematic since the beginning with the Union Steamship Company. Some may argue that we should always look to improve. Well, have a look at our governments in Canada and many would argue we haven’t seen improvement in 150+ years.
Our local political leaders are encouraging rapid development and there may be renewed interest in a tolled fixed crossing. Rather than count on the B.C. government to build such a project, tap the developers who can fund such a project. Once paid for, the tolls could be removed with ownership reverting to the provincial government. This would be an initiative similar to when the Guinness family built the Lions Gate Bridge in the 1930s.
So, my view along with other like-minded residents is currently BC Ferries does a great job and suits our needs very well. However, future changes will be required. There is a caveat this summer: get a reservation, don’t travel during peak periods, exercise patience and avoid travel on Tuesday/Wednesday. If you have to schedule a medical appointment, ask for a time that works best with the ferry schedule. I’ve done this and it does work.
Richard Austin, Halfmoon Bay
