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In the early 90’s the County of Peterborough studied the traffic situation in Bridgenorth and came to the conclusion that the problem of traffic congestion could be best solved by building a bypass around the village. The theory being that a high percentage of traffic would simply drive around the village to and from various destinations and only those people who wished to do business in Bridgenorth would continue to use Ward Street. Various outdated studies were conducted to substantiate their position to prove its necessity.
Residents of Peterborough County should be extremely concerned about the proposed Bridgenorth Bypass. In the near future the county intends to waste taxpayer’s dollars on a road that will wind through an environmentally sensitive area, fertile farmland and a significant wetland. This roadway will isolate the business community, resulting in hundreds of thousands of lost revenue, along Ward Street and could cost upwards of $15 to 20 million dollars. Money that the county and taxpayers do not have.
The environmental study that would allow the County to proceed with this project is approximately 14 years old. Since that study was completed regulations concerning construction through or near wetlands have changed significantly. Endangered Species
Protection legislation has been updated. Agricultural lands must be protected from development. The county appears to be above these regulations.
The Save Bridgenorth Committee feels that traffic concerns through Bridgenorth can easily be resolved by simply redeveloping Ward Street at a fraction of the cost. There would not be environmental damage, no wasteful destruction of farmland and the community of Bridgenorth would remain the vibrant community that we all love.
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