Chiefs back TransLink vote

Photo: Contributed - Wikipedia

Lower Mainland police and fire chiefs announced Wednesday they are united in support of Metro Vancouver’s TransLink referendum. 

Citing safety concerns, they're urging a Yes vote to the planned 0.5 per cent tax increase.

The increase will fund an annual budget of $250 million for transit and transportation improvements and be part of a 10-year, $7.5 billion transportation plan that includes a provision for increased SkyTrain service, late-night buses and road improvements.

“People get hurt and trouble starts in Vancouver’s Entertainment District when the clubs close, and there are limited transportation options to get people home safely,” says Vancouver Police Chief Jim Chu. “In addition, reducing the reasons for people to drink and drive will increase safety for all of us.”

The chiefs say fewer cars on the road will mean faster response times for emergency vehicles.

“With one million more people moving to the region, there is a real concern that if nothing changes, the growing congestion and gridlock will severely impact how quickly and effectively emergency vehicles can respond,” says Surrey Fire Chief Len Garis. 

As traffic has increased over the years, the ability of emergency vehicles to respond in a timely manner has become more difficult. Vancouver Police Department statistics show that from 2010 to 2014, priority one responses have been slower by about one minute, on average. 

“That minute can mean the difference between life and death,” adds Chu. 

“Consistently, we have seen and heard that traffic-related matters are the number one concern for the public, as it affects both public safety and liability issues in our communities. The transit initiatives included within this referendum are a far more efficient manner of addressing those concerns, as opposed to simply increasing enforcement," says New Westminster Police Chief Dave Jones.