If South Deltans were given a billion dollars and told to spend it on the most pressing highways project in the area, the vast majority, I assume, would go with some sort of upgrade to the George Massey Tunnel.
After all, the tube, now into its sixth decade, has seen better days. Shiny and new way back in 1959, its capacity has stayed status quo while the region has exploded around it. The corresponding daily traffic jams have earned a dubious place in local lore.
So while most of us would logically conclude that should a billion bucks happen to be floating around, the tunnel - or its replacement - would be a top priority for that cash. And that, my friends, is why we're the ones that pay taxes, not spend them.
The correct answer to that billion-dollar question, at least according to government types, is the South Fraser Perimeter Road, the four-lane freeway that will stretch from Deltaport Way out to the Trans-Canada Highway in Surrey.
Now I'm not suggesting the SFPR is a bad idea because even with an upgraded Highway 10, there really isn't a decent east-west route south of the Fraser River, but those making the decisions only have to check on the tunnel any weekday morning or afternoon to see there isn't an adequate north-south route in the region either.
Those over at municipal hall recognize this dilemma and are looking to commission a study to come up with solutions to the growing congestion. The hope is that findings of an independent review of the situation will prompt senior governments to finally take action.
It's a nice thought, and I give Delta marks for trying, but I wouldn't hold my breath on this one.
I remember a study, or perhaps it was more of a traffic count, Delta undertook a few years ago to see where northbound traffic on Highway 17 was headed. The count showed far more vehicles continued north through the tunnel than headed east via River Road, Highway 99 or Highway 10.
Those numbers, forwarded to senior government, supported the premise that it would make more sense to invest in a tunnel upgrade or replacement than it would to pour money into an east-west route. Shortly after, construction began on the South Fraser Perimeter Road.
I suspect this upcoming study will make another solid case why something needs to be done to address the deficiencies of the aging tube.
The bigger question is whether anyone is listening.
