To the Editor,
As part of the upcoming infrastructure program proposed by the Trudeau government, I would like to see funding for a bridge to Gabriola Island.
Such spending seems to meet all three targets envisioned in the infrastructure plan. Public transit would be enhanced as the Regional District of Nanaimo could extend public bus service from Nanaimo to the island, perhaps including Nanaimo Airport and Ladysmith as well – areas currently without public bus transportation to and from Nanaimo.
A bridge would provide social infrastructure value to Gabriola residents as they would have easy access to Nanaimo Regional General Hospital and many other facilities in Nanaimo 24/7 for the first time.
And finally, this would qualify as a green project as the gas-guzzling ferry could be withdrawn from service. That would save B.C. Ferries a lot of money over the long term and will be a welcome change for paying ferry passengers.
The bridge would encourage business development and tourism on Gabriola, resulting in new jobs. It would also greatly enhance property values right across the island.
I hope our local authorities will consider this idea when the process begins to select appropriate infrastructure projects.
David StanleyNanaimo