A Plan for Road Improvement but No Plan for Funding It
 |
| If you think these signs are confusing, try figuring out the Liberal's 'plans' for upgrading the National Highway Systems. (Photo: Canadian Auto Press) |
Recently the federal government has started to refocus its energies toward road improvement, however, the sustainability and maintenance of our highways infrastructure comes with a price tag. Upon hearing the news about the government's renewed commitment to transportation route upgrades the Canadian Automobiles Association (CAA) was thrilled, but that smile quickly turned to a frown when the fine print uncovered no substantial funding backed up their idle promises. Instead all future National Highway Systems upgrades may be directly funded from taxpayer's pocketbooks, via a user pay toll system.
 |
| Ontario's 401 is one of the busiest and most dangerous stretches of highway in Canada. (Photo: Ontario Ministry of Transportation) |
The CAA, a federation of 11 automobile clubs serving over 4 million members nation-wide, has urged the federal government to get clear on a specific direction and most importantly augment funds for national road and highway networks, necessary to maintain major transportation routes such as the Trans-Canada Highway. "The federal government is missing out on immediate, direct and measurable benefits through improved safety, greater productivity, competitiveness and trade opportunities, job creation, tourism and reduced vehicle emissions," remarked David Flewelling, President of the CAA. Route 1 carries the majority of inter-city, inter-provincial, and international vehicles travelling across Canada which, in the past and present, led to time-space convergence, and the development of new areas throughout the country.