It’s obvious that the Pattulo Bridge will need to be replaced. While the decision has been made, how it will end up being replaced is the big question. I believe the answer to this question, and the option eventually chosen will have as profound an impact on New Westminster as any other issue – past, present, or in the near future.
I believe that many of New West’s biggest challenges/issues stem from traffic control. The majority of traffic on our streets has neither an origin or destination within New West. In fact, data pulled from a 2004 New Westminster transportation plan showed that 82% of traffic in during peak hours ends up heading through town. Obviously, this is something that comes inherently with our location within the Lower Mainland.
Throughout the early part of 2012, Translink will be working to solve the issue surrounding replacing the Pattulo Bridge. I truly hope New Westminsterites get educated on this issue, and join the dialogue. Because of our location within the Lower Mainland, our co-operation is vital to all of Metro Vancouver. In order to understand what is best for New Westminster, it’s important that those with a vested interest in the city have their voice heard, and become part of the solution.
The City of New Westminer put out a release today with important information regarding this project. Also, consider taking a few minutes of your free time to look over Translink’s page regarding the Pattulo Replacement Project. Let’s keep this top of mind and join the dialogue on possible/desired results!