Province
An impression of the twinned Port Mann Bridge, one of the controversial parts of the Gateway project.
After reading about South Delta and the highway choices it faces, I’d like to acknowledge Transportation Minister Kevin Falcon’s ability to listen to the people affected.
It seems that no matter where you live in the Lower Mainland, at some time your community will come under attack from our own growth and needs.
Whether we like it or not, these changes and highways have to go through. But it is so important to keep those affected in mind and to listen to what they have to say.
The cost factor of doing the job should be weighed against the community and environmental impacts. And, if it costs more but is achievable, then the changes should be made.
This Gateway Project has more than 25 different groups currently opposing it — and not just over the twinning of the Port Mann Bridge.
So thank you, Mr. Falcon, for seeing how important it is to listen and remember when you said: “At the end of the day, it is less of a cost decision and more of just trying to strike the right balance.”
Lynne Phelan, Delta
Keep it green
A report by Don Campbell of the Real Estate Investment Network says the Gateway Project will boost property values by up to 20 per cent for commercial property within a kilometre of highway exits — and more than one kilometre for residential property.
Neighbourhoods within that kilometre distance and all along the length of the highway won’t fare as well.
These residential areas will dramatically decrease in value until they become commercial areas.
This has occurred throughout the Lower Mainland wherever major roadways have been built.
There are options that provide for the movement of goods and people that protect our environment and our livability.
Transit initiatives, tunnelling and routing highways away from sensitive areas and neighbourhoods are all options that further these ideals.
They may cost more at first, but will pay out later in better living.
Savings in construction costs should not be transferred to residents as huge losses in health and property values.
The constant erosion of our neighbourhoods and our green spaces has got to stop.
Don Hunt, Delta
