Re: Potential bridge from Nanaimo to Gabriola Island (Special Report on B.C. Ferries – Part 4: Trying to reimagine B.C. Ferries, News online)
I am aware that Gabriola Island is the one location presently served by ferries where a previous study indicated that a bridge could be feasible. But as a Hornby Island trustee, I support Islands Trust policy, which states that no islands should be connected by bridges.
Bridges are more than just a potential transportation solution. They pose huge land-use and community issues.
I have seriously questioned “bridges” being put forward for consideration in a very generalized way in the current consultation being conducted by the province. Each route has its specific characteristics, context and mix of utilization.
The current consultation would be much more useful if it was focused upon generating constructive discussion on a route-by-route basis, based upon full information about all factors to be considered. I would not presume to comment on the particular circumstances and potential options for the Gabriola ferry route, as I do not have a sufficient level of understanding of the factors that apply to this route.
Tony Law
chair, Denman-Hornby Ferry Advisory Committee
