Editor:
Re: Tunnel congestion opens door to idea of passenger ferry, letter to the
Editor, Sept. 5
In answer to ML Burke's letter about a foot passenger ferry to Richmond, I have to say I was happy to see a like-minded individual express that idea.
It's something that has occurred to me many times and I've never quite understood why it's not an option that is being added to the list of possible solutions to lessen the George Massey Tunnel gridlock.
Maybe it makes too much sense. Looking at a map, it would seem that it would take longer to get across, but would people rather sit feeling frustrated in traffic and breathing fumes or enjoy the beauty that is around us?
It would certainly start a person's day in a more serene mood and be a great way to wind down at the end of the day. And I don't actually think it would lengthen the trip given the time currently spent in traffic.
A shuttle bus to Brighouse Station would then be required but is that really all that costly when compared to building a bridge or a tunnel?
Why is there a SeaBus in Vancouver and nothing similar at all for those of us south of the Fraser?
Even to lessen the rush hour traffic from Ladner/ Tsawwassen would make a huge difference. Small steps can create large solutions.
Ladner wants to develop the waterfront. How are tourists going to get here? What an added bonus for them to arrive here by boat.
We're very heritage conscious in Ladner. A ferry is how people got here before the tunnel. Can you get more heritage than that?
It would also help alleviate the traffic problem during the public markets. Thank goodness the Delta police are lenient because I had a hard time parking to attend church. I wasn't a traffic hindrance and I have a small car, but I wasn't between two white lines either.
Since our fishing industry has all but disappeared, there are certainly enough people around that are qualified to operate a passenger ferry.
It would create jobs for those people as well.
Shirley MacNutt
