P.A. councillor wants to explore toll as way to finance new bridge
PRINCE ALBERT There could be a cost in the future to using Prince Albert’s only bridge, as city councillors look for ways to fund the construction of a second one.
At a meeting on Tuesday, Ward 1 Coun. Charlene Miller brought forward a motion asking for a report on the feasibility of implementing a toll on Diefenbaker Bridge.
The funds would go toward construction of a second bridge. The possibility of providing free bridge access for Prince Albert residents will also be considered.
“I think that this toll will make the province and the federal government see that we’re actually trying to do our part,” Miller said during the meeting, adding she hopes the two senior levels of government will take the project more seriously if they see the city’s efforts.
Some city councillors expressed concern that Prince Albert residents are getting a raw deal.
Ward 7 Coun. Dennis Nowoselsky said residents are already paying for too many services, while Ward 2 Coun. Terra Lennox-Zepp raised concerns about people in her ward who cross the bridge for work, school and other services.
Ward 8 Coun. Ted Zurakowski asked how a toll would affect the city ’s relationship with surrounding rural municipalities.
Miller said she’s heard those concerns, but she disagrees.
“There are residents who have phoned me. They want a second bridge, but they don’t want to pay for it,” she said. “I understand that, and I get that, but if you’re going to use the bridge, I think that you should be paying for the bridge as well.”
Any decision on whether to implement a toll is still a long way off. Council still has to wait for the city administration to look into the matter.
Despite her desire to move the issue forward, Miller said she remains skeptical that an actual toll will ever be put in place.
“Probably not, but you’ve got to try,” she said when asked if the issue would gain any traction with city council. “Every session I believe has to try (to fund a new bridge), and this is our kick at it.”
If you’re going to use the bridge, I think that you should be paying for the bridge as well.