The bridges, in particular, are a matter of perspective. We have 120k people working in the general downtown area, with that number only expected to increase. 13,000 people cross the river per day, and that number is going to be increasing as well. Building a new bridge promotes a long-term vision with environmental benefits in mind (less drivers, better access), and can offer a unique identity opportunity for the City.
Think about it - where would we be if the City didn't build the Centre Street bridge back in in 1916? It's a landmark and vital artery for both traffic and pedestrian flow. No one can possibly deny the uses, grandeur, and importance that this bridge continues to bring us. Bridges are absolutely essential to the growth of a good city. I can only imagine what a New York without a Brooklyn Bridge or a San Francisco without a Golden Gate would be like today.
Besides, as Druh Farrell said, a $5 million bridge over a river just is not plausible. Water bridges are not cheap to build and maintain, but it is quite necessary.
Whether people like it or not, Calgary is going to have those new bridges - it's not a matter of if, but when.
Last edited by Ozy_Flame; 10-31-2008 at 01:59 PM.
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