After scrapping the plan for a 10-lane bridge across the south arm of the Fraser River, the provincial NDP government is expected to unveil its preferred option for a new crossing late next year. Should the federal government provide funding for a project anticipated to be in the billions of dollars so the entire cost doesn’t fall on B.C. taxpayers?
Randy Anderson-Fennell (NDP)
Yes, New Democrats believe Canadians should be able to count on the federal government to invest in infrastructure that makes a difference in their communities. Investments in public infrastructure — particularly under a Community Benefits Agreement — create good jobs and make our communities more liveable. I’m a tradesperson and I also see this project as an opportunity to secure training and apprenticeship opportunities for local residents and groups who are traditionally underrepresented in the skilled construction trades.
Tanya Corbet (Conservative)
Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer committed that his government would prioritize and provide funding for the Massey Tunnel replacement. Investment and leadership are required from the federal government to fix this important commuter and trade corridor infrastructure. Our commuters deserve better and should not be forced to more years of long and unpredictable traffic conditions. They deserve a government that will get them home faster.
Craig DeCraene (Green)
I believe the federal government should provide funding to the project even though highways are mostly provincial/municipal jurisdiction. The gateway project was partially funded by multiple governments levels. Highway 99 is a gateway to the USA. Expanding the crossing to include light rail expansion would help to lower GHG emissions from idling vehicles stuck in the congestion.
Angelina Ireland (People’s Party)
Building the much needed Fraser River crossing to address the Massey Tunnel traffic congestion should include plans that accommodate future growth for private as well as public transportation such as buses and rail, in addition to considering cost efficiency and earthquake-proof structural integrity. This is largely a provincial issue, but if elected MP, and a resident of Delta who uses the tunnel daily, I will assist in whatever capacity within the proper limits of the federal government to help facilitate the process of creating a feasible crossing over the Fraser River.
Carla Qualtrough (Liberal)
Yes, the federal government should provide funding to this important corridor. We need a new crossing. I have taken steps to help make this happen, including many stakeholder meetings. I brought the infrastructure minister to tour the site with Mayor George Harvie. I wrote to Premier John Horgan urging him to complete this project and reminding him federal money is available. The last thing we need is another meeting or to restart the process, as proposed by the Conservative candidate. As the prime minister has said, under a Liberal government the money is there.
Tony Bennett (independent)
I support a new crossing of 10 lanes underwater or above, whatever the citizens deem appropriate. With both major federal parties committing to the crossing I believe the work remaining is with the province and our neighbours to the north. While not federal mandates I am committed to working with all governing bodies and peoples to maintain and improve the Corp. of Delta
Amarit Bains (independent)
I will secure Federal funding to help B.C. with a new George Massey crossing but only if the new crossing is a practical solution. This means any new crossing should include SkyTrain. The Minister of Infrastructure and Communities is responsible for the overall coordination of infrastructure and B.C. cannot build cities of the 21st century on its own. I will secure federal funding for a crossing which creates long term economic growthand aides in creating inclusive communities. A new replacement crossing must be included as a part of the federal government’s green infrastructure investment plan.
