RE: Bruhn Bridge replacement options.
I am very strongly opposed to Option 3 as presented by the Ministry of Transportation &Infrastructure (MOTI) at the public information session in 2016.
I especially am opposed to the proposed construction of a second bridge over the channel wherein traffic to and from the west side would use this bridge.
MOTI will build this bridge, which will go from Main Street Landing, across the channel to Old Spallumcheen Road (OSR). MOTI will then “gift” the bridge to the District of Sicamous (DOS). This means that from that time of gifting, the DOS will be responsible for all maintenance of the bridge forever and a day. It also means the replacement of the bridge would also fall on the shoulders of the DOS and its taxpayers at some future date, and at some quite considerable cost.
When I reflect on how the DOS is trying to raise the funds to replace the old wooden bridge that crosses the Eagle River on the Cambie-Solsqua Road, how could it afford to replace the Main Street bridge?
Therefore, I urge council to ask MOTI to replace the Bruhn Bridge using Option 2 or some version similar to it. It still provides users of OSR a safe and convenient route to and from their destinations. It also provides for easy access to the businesses in Sicamous. Should council decide to opt for the Main Street crossing, I believe it must go to a referendum to receive approval for the expenditures related to the maintenance and eventual replacement of this bridge.
I have further reservations regarding the Main Street bridge other than costs. Sicamous prides itself on being a “senior friendly,” walkable and scooter friendly community. However, during the busy season, Main Street is already very busy with holiday traffic. Adding the traffic to and from OSR, would seriously compound this problem. If development along OSR proceeds as predicted, this will only compound the traffic flow. We simply have to look at our neighbours in Salmon Arm, who thought it was a great idea to bring the Trans-Canada Highway through their downtown. Ask folks in Salmon Arm today and I believe you would get a much different response.
An added hazard to residents of Sicamous would be the extra traffic that would go past Eagle River Secondary along Main Street. High school students are not known for their observance of traffic rules, and having a busy highway go past their school during mornings and afternoons, and also during lunch and recess when they want to cross the road, is endangering them and leading to traffic mayhem.
I also have misgivings about the seemingly small and inconvenient portal that is being allowed for large boats to go under the bridge during high water. The fact that it is right next to the west shore of the channel and subject to currents that may play havoc with steering of the boats through this portal, concerns me.
So, given all of the above financial liabilities, the dangers to our seniors and students, and possible design flaws, I strongly urge council to seriously reconsider a “free bridge” and say to MOTI, “Thanks, but no thanks,” to a Main Street bridge.
Fred Busch