Editor:
Re: Delta power lines should have gone out to port, letter to the editor, Oct. 23
Heather Colls' letter suggests that Port Metro Vancouver should have been responsible for burying the 230 kV power lines on Highway 17. In fact, those power lines and that particular project fall outside of Port Metro Vancouver's jurisdiction.
We have, however, examined the possibility of installing underground power lines on port property, specifically along the causeway leading to the terminals at Roberts Bank.
Studies show the risk of earthquakes, the increased complexity (and cost) of maintenance, and environmental concerns in the intertidal and upland areas present significant reasons not to bury the existing power lines to Roberts Bank.
In her letter, Colls also asks what we are doing to address port-related environmental impacts on land. We take great pride in our industry-leading programs and initiatives designed to minimize the impact of port operations on the environment - air, water and land. Indeed, our legislated mandate requires that we support Canadian trade objectives while at the same time provide for a high level of safety and environmental protection.
Some of our key land-management initiatives include conducting regular environmental assessments of port lands, conserving important wildlife and bird habitat, and committing $25 million in environmental mitigation and enhancements as part of our proposed terminal expansion project at Roberts Bank.
For more information on our environmental initiatives, visit http://portmetrovancouver.com/en/environment.aspx
Finally, I encourage Colls and any other resident of Delta to visit us in our recently opened community office, located in Trenant Park Square on Ladner Trunk Road. The office is a place where local residents can interact personally with port staff, ask questions, get information and provide input on the port activities that take place in Delta. The office is open to the public Wednesday to Friday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Peter Xotta
Vice President, Planning and Operations
Port Metro Vancouver
