by Travis Barbour As frustration mounts with the looming service cuts by BC Ferries, it is essential that we continue to look for creative solutions that could ease the difficulties created by them.
One solution that I would like to suggest has the potential to save BC Ferries the majority of the $18-plus million it has been asked to save annually. I believe this alternative would function as a win for Powell River, a win for BC Ferries and a win for the government of British Columbia. The solution is to build a bridge (or more accurately two bridges) to connect Saltery Bay and Earls Cove.
This is a win for BC Ferries because, other than the northern routes, the Saltery Bay to Earls Cove crossing by far runs the largest annual deficit at $12.54 million. The next largest annual deficit loses almost $3 million less than this route. With the construction of a bridge, two thirds of BC Ferries’ mandated savings could be accomplished. Furthermore, the elimination of the route would save the ferry corporation the massive capital expense associated with replacing the vessel—which it would likely have to do during the lifespan of the bridge.
This solution is a win for the provincial government because BC Ferries is a Crown corporation, meaning that the government is still on the hook for the debt the system incurs. If the government built a bridge and eliminated the ferry route, it would be able to factor the $12.54 million it would save annually against the upfront capital costs. The government would also have the benefit of creating a large number of high-paying jobs during the construction phases and would have the added bonus of stimulating the economy in a part of the province that is struggling to get its economy going. If the business community of Powell River is able to thrive, the province only stands to gain.
Finally, the people of Powell River will benefit. The construction of a bridge would make it possible for businesses which depend on a daily round trip to Vancouver to thrive. Tourism stands to gain, as there would only be one ferry separating the Pearl on the Sunshine Coast from the Lower Mainland. Commuters would also be relieved of the stress of trying to make connecting sailings which sadly often leads to reckless speeding. Finally, the linking of the entire Sunshine Coast would provide easier access to professionals for all people on the Sunshine Coast. People like medical specialists and lawyers are far more likely to service an area with a population of 60,000 than 15,000.
With the inclusion of a modest toll, I am confident that this plan would not be too much of a financial burden to make into a reality. My hope is that the people of Powell River and the Sunshine Coast, BC Ferries, and the province can come together on this idea that would provide a win for all parties involved.
Travis Barbour is a 27-year-old Nanaimo resident who was born in Powell River.
