To the Editor,
Re: ICF asks taxpayers for $3.2M to fix train, bridges, trestles, Oct. 13.
This never-ending pit for taxpayer dollars called the Island Corridor Foundation suggests that only another $3.2 million is required.
That is above the $15 million that the taxpayers have already committed to spend through the provincial and federal grants.
And there is still no guarantee that any of this is fiscally viable.
Where is the money going to come from to operate the trains and maintain the infrastructure? Via Rail has made no commitment to operate the commuter train. No logging or mining company has indicated it is ready to use the train for its hauling needs.
In fact, except for the odd freight carried north, there is no traffic on the railway even though freight is allowed to use it.
If this was a complete government project, it would be called a boondoggle. Spending millions of dollars so a few construction companies can make money with no regard for the long-term viability of the project would be a crime.
Passenger rail transportation with the exception of densely populated areas is just not viable.
J. Sharpe
Nanaimo