The topic of funding for the George Massey Tunnel replacement project came up during a Delta Chamber of Commerce luncheon Wednesday with Delta-Richmond East MP Kerry-Lynne Findlay as the guest speaker.
The Conservative cabinet minister was asked during a question-and-answer session whether there's money allocated for infrastructure improvements and whether that budget can sustain the project.
Findlay said that's a bit of an enigma.
"The provincial government has announced a bridge. They've announced they're building it. They've announced where it will begin and where it will end. And I know as much as any of you do," she said.
"I have tried to get more information. I've tried to understand how they intend to build such a large infrastructure project without federal funding because normally these are P2 or P3 major projects. We're talking about a lot of money." The province announced a couple of years ago that a new multi-lane bridge between South Delta and Richmond would be built along the Highway 99 corridor to replace the aging tunnel.
The Optimist reported last month that technical analysis is ongoing and an environmental review must also be completed, but everything is moving according to schedule.
Construction is expected to begin in 2017 and the bridge should be operational by the end of 2022.
The province hasn't said how much the project would cost, noting technical work must be completed first.
"We're not quite sure what's going on. That's an honest answer. I've been trying to find out now for quite a while," Findlay said.
The minister of national revenue was at the luncheon, held at the Delta Town Country Inn in Ladner, to talk about this week's federal budget.
She said it supports jobs and growth, helps families through tax relief and ensures security of Canadians through enhanced support for the armed forces.
She noted the annual Tax-Free Savings Account contribution limit will be increased to $10,000 effective for 2015 and subsequent years and that seniors will be given more freedom and flexibility when it comes to managing their retirement income.
"Implementing policies focused on raising Canada's economic potential and creating stable, well-paying jobs continues to be our government's top priority," she said.
