Editor: Build the new crossing, but retain the George Massey Tunnel for it can still be a useful crossing for many years to come.
It must be pointed out the part of the Fraser River that imposes the greatest obstacle to shipping is the area known as the Steveston Cut, not the George Massey Tunnel.
Further that full hydrological and environmental studies need to be undertaken on the affects of deepening the Fraser River to accommodate super tankers.
Questions need to asked as to: What affects the deepening will have on the dikes, fish migration and the marshlands and tributaries that presently have silted up, are being dredged and will have to be continually dredged, perhaps even more so if the main river is to be dredged.
What will happen to the Fraser River Estuary's recognition as Ramsar Wetland of International Significance and it's ecological importance for migratory birds and fish species if the Fraser River is to be maintained as a deep sea-shipping channel? Must we destroy everything that cannot be replaced to accommodate what we consider economically beneficial? Failing the retaining of the George Massey Tunnel, that both Delta and Richmond entrances or approaches to the George Massey Tunnel be retained along with their ventilation tower as monuments to the George Massey Tunnel.
Further that on Delta's side, which is on the Deas Island Regional Park a Fraser Estuary Interpretive Centre that could be built on top of the approach.
The ventilation tower could be used as a viewing point for the Fraser Estuary and it's marshlands and bird life.
In the Fraser River Interpretive Centre the fishing history of the Delta and the Deas Island Greek Community and Cannery could be displayed.
Perhaps something good could come from the demise of a crossing my father fought so hard to achieve.
Douglas George Massey
