A feasibility study shows that while building a bridge to Gabriola Island is technically possible, in the end, the $359 million project would not be a cost-effective alternative to the current ferry link.
Due to the Gabriola Island fixed link feasibility study’s findings, the province has said it will not consider it as an option at this time.
“There is simply not enough compelling evidence to proceed with further work on a fixed link to Gabriola Island,” said Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Todd Stone in a written statement.
WATCH MORE: Proposed Gabriola Island bridge crossing
The study, which was done by an independent consultant, looked at alignments, road connections, construction cost, operation and maintenance costs, travel time, reliability and flexibility for potential users. It also included an assessment of the socio-economic and environmental impacts of this type of connection.
Other feasible solutions were considered against the current ferry service and showed that a number of combinations of possible road and bridge options exist but would range in cost from $258 million to $520 million. The average cost of the project was estimated at $359 million.
About 4,000 people live on Gabriola Island, which draws a larger population during summer months. BC Ferries’ service to the island east of Nanaimo was cut back as a cost-cutting measure last year when service on other routes was also reduced.
Along with considering the cost, the study also noted the province would need to take in other considerations if the project were green-lit like archaeological and environmental conditions.
~ with files from Canadian Press
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