Residents of Surrey are the most likely Metro Vancouverites to support the removal of the George Massey Tunnel and replace it with a new bridge, according to the results of an Insights West survey released January 27.
Almost two-thirds—63%—of all those surveyed in Surrey support the proposal, compared with 51% in the region overall. Across Metro Vancouver, men (59%), residents aged 35-54 (58%) and those who drive to work or school (55%) were the biggest supporters.
Poll respondents were divided on how the project should be funded. More than 70% of those polled said they were opposed to increasing property taxes or increasing fuel taxes. Two-thirds were against the idea of tolling roads and 65% said they did not support an increase in transit fares.
Drivers were more likely to support the idea of increasing transit fares (51%) than those who use public transit (17%). Among transit users, 42% support the idea of a vehicle levy, compared with 25% of drivers.
“Despite supporting the Massey replacement proposal, Metro Vancouverites do not appear ready at this point to embrace polls, levies or higher taxes to fund transit projects,” said Insights West vice-president of public affairs Mario Canseco.
“It is also evident that, for some residents, the preferred solution lies in making the other group pay more, be it drivers or transit users.”
The full project would include a new bridge and improvements on Highway 99 between Richmond and Delta. It also includes a cyclist pathway and pedestrian path across the bridge, as well as dedicated transit lanes. The provincial government said it plans to fund at least part of the project with user tolls.
