The 'Blue' Bridge

The 'Blue' Bridge, originally uploaded by canoe too.

This Saturday the citizens of Victoria vote on whether or not the city should borrow almost $50 million to replace this bridge. It's in need of repair or replacement as it has been neglected and the current bridge will likely fall into the harbour if there is a serious earthquake.

However, a lot of people think the bridge has historic value and should be refurbished for what would likely be considerably less cost. Frankly, I think the bridge is a bit of an eyesore. Not everything old is worth saving no matter how much affection you may have for the old thing. It's the bridge renovation supporters who are likely to be the ones to get out the 'no' vote on Saturday.

I would like to vote 'no' but not because I'd like to see the old bridge retained. This part of Vancouver Island has the most bizarre municipal govenment structure. There are over a dozen small communities in the area each with their own mayor and council. But since this bridge is in Victoria, it's assumed that it's Victoria's problem. Victoria, population-wise, is really just a big town. Why it alone is responsible for an infrastructure project that will cost clost to $100 million is a question I've yet to see answered.

I'm sure that if this bridge were to be closed because it becomes unsafe that more non-Victorians than not are going to be inconvenienced. I would like to hear what the other communities would say if the idea of putting tolls on the bridge was considered ... at least until it's paid for. It's fairly easy to do from a technological point these days. Citizens of Victoria would, of course, use the bridge without paying a toll.

It will be very interesting to see how the vote goes on Saturday.