I for one am happy the bridge has turned out so well (so far). It has silenced some of the critics, and the others are so deeply against it, they will never accept it. I can understand that.
I too was not happy with the process, and I am a bridge supporter. However, as Sturgess points out, in the end we have a great bridge for our city. It won't be a constant reminder of a Spanish designer who fleeced our city with an expensive eyesore. It really could have been much worse, than a small delay on opening the bridge, with no budget over run (Graham is on the hook, as I have been told).
I am also happy that this city is taking a step forward. Sturgess is right, we do have a fantastic skyline. This bridge compliments it. As I drive down Memorial or Centre Street, I do always notice what a great looking skyline Calgary has (for contrast please see Edmonton's downtown). I've been to many cities in the world and Calgary really doesn't get the credit it deserves.
Anyway, there will always be those "Silly Hall" folks who would rather have a "Fiscal Hawk" in charge. You know the guy who would poo poo the bridge, but then throw the savings at their developer buddies for free sewer and power hook ups in Cranston.
I really think this is something that will be money well spent, with tangable results that all Calgarians can see.
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