David Suzuki PMB Briefing

Bruce, Ian. Briefing Document: Proposed twinning of the Port Mann Bridge and Highway 1 expansion. 13 Jun. 2006 David Suzuki Foundation. 1 Nov. 2008 website.

The briefing document by the David Suzuki Foundation analyzes the implications of twining the PMB on current regional goals. Bruce acknowledges that there is congestion but believes it is due to the approaches and not the bridge itself. He also states that unlike the other Gateway projects which assist cargo transport, the PMB project focuses on SOV use during peak-hour commutes. One of the reasons they oppose highway expansion is that it would lead to urban sprawl which conflicts with the Livable Regions Strategic Plan of Metro Vancouver that promotes sustainable growth. In addition, the document outlines the failures of highway expansion at reducing congestion in the long term through sprawl, longer commuting distance and pressure on secondary roads. They also state that the minimum 1.5 billion dollar cost is too expensive (not including social costs of increased obesity, traffic accidents and air pollution) and actions are required now and not as far as the 2013 completion date. Finally the report claims that alternatives were not sufficiently considered and provides numerous options, many of which have been considered by regional organizations, for alleviating traffic congestion on Highway 1. The proposed options include increased bus service in both frequency and area service, more Park and Ride locations, a rapid bus to Coquitlam on priority bus lanes, better connections to an expanded SkyTrain system, Evergreen line construction, and rescheduling peak commercial transportation demand with longer port hours.

The David Suzuki foundation has strong national and international support and accreditation. As a founding member of the Livable Region Coalition, one of the strongest opponents of the GP, their briefing holds decent weight on the discussion. The source is well written and documented. They could have used statistical evidence to show that their alternatives are viable but I don’t think that was their intention.

November 2

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