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TransLink needs money, distance road tolls considered
TransLink needs money, distance road tolls considered
Says it requires $70 million annually
Mike Lloyd Aug 22, 2011 07:34:45 AM
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VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) - TransLink is gearing up to spend $70 million on expansion plans this year, if it can get approval and if it can get the cash. The transit authority says it has the money to maintain service but with ridership up, there is no funding for expansion.
The regional transit authority says it needs the money annually over the next 10 years to meet demand. TransLink's mayors council has proposed a two cents-per-litre gas tax, which would cover some of that shortfall.
Langley City Mayor Peter Fassbender tells the Vancouver Sun other options could include road pricing, that's tolling according to distance travelled.
Drivers that News1130 spoke to this morning do not like the idea. "A lot of people can't live close to where they work so they're forced to drive long distance. They're already putting in long hours to battle traffic and you'd be penalized even more," says Jason.
But Marika takes transit after working nights and says the money to expand service has to come from somewhere. "Standing an hour after doing a graveyard shift, I have to wait an hour to get the SkyTrain."
TransLink says there is public support for expanded service, the tough part is funding it. Other ideas include another carbon tax, or yet more property taxes. |
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發表於 2011-8-22 07:16
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