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Alderman questions intent of bridge – Metro US

Alderman questions intent of bridge

A pedestrian bridge to be built across the Bow River — and now, to pay honour and respect to Canadian soldiers — has one alderman upset over its original intent.

Ald. Andre Chabot said yesterday that it was never discussed in city committee meetings that the bridge would honour troops.

“If that was the intent originally then it should have been stated right from the get-go,” said Chabot.

Chabot believes that Calgarians would support the concept of the bridge, but not the $22 million price tag that would have to be paid with taxpayer money.

Ald. Ric McIver said a better idea would be to rename one or more of the current bridges on Memorial Drive in honour of the troops, and spend the $22 million elsewhere.

“Perhaps some people are using (honouring Canadian soldiers) to save their political skins on this issue,” said McIver yesterday.

“We got more priority list that’s unfunded than you can shake a stick at, and there are many high priority projects unfunded in favour of this low priority project,” said McIver.

Councillors approved the name Peace Bridge yesterday for the new structure.