Translink’s Proposal for the Aging Pattullo Bridge

Both the Province, and the 24, had some interesting articles on the proposed rebuilding of the Pattullo Bridge that connects New Westminster and Surrey. The main point that is made is the fact that the predicted costs to repair the aging infrastructure are much higher than the cost of building a new bridge. Fair enough, if that’s the case replace the bridge. My issue with this proposal is that Translink would be making this (as well as the Golden Ears Bridge currently being constructed, and the plans to update the Port Mann) will be tolled. Here is where the problem lies. In Metro Vancouver we pay an additional levy on our gas to Translink, we also pay increases in our property taxes, and a portion of our provincial taxes go to Translink as well. They are using a portion of this money to expand our Sky Train system. Fine, we definitely need it. They will not consider using already in place infrastructure to expand the system. By paying for my gas, I am paying for a system that I have no use for. I do however use our bridges regularily. The Fraser River crossings are in dire need of upgrades. With my hard earned taxes going to the bridge work, it will make me a happier commuter. If Translink did not have a gas levy, as well as a portion of our property taxes, I would pay the tolls. Our roads are cracking a full of pot holes. Use my tax money from the gas I purchase to use these roads, to repair them. Or will I be tolled to drive over major roads to get to work? In addition to tolling the new Pattullo, Translink has proposed peak time tolls. So what you’re telling me is that if I have to cross the bridge to get to work (to coincidentally pay for your bridge) I need to pay more. Simply because with the inflated housing market, I cannot afford to live on the other side of the river. Translink has far too much power in Metro Vancouver and it is about time that us working class citizen’s stood up to them.

While visiting Portugal several years ago, I was shocked to learn that every couple of hundred miles on the highway system, we had to pay tolls. One of the people I was travelling with (who had lived in Portugal for many years) explained to me that they paid much less in taxes, and the tolls went to maintaining the infrastructures. The highways were impeccable. It seems as though Translink may want to consider a system similar to that. Or not toll us to use the infrastructure we are already paying for.

Photo credit, Buckland and Taylor Ltd, Bridge Engineering