Helping transit grow: the levy story

Arguments for and against the highly controversial levy approved by Translink, the transportation authority in Greater Vancouver, are discussed. This highly controversial plan will cost car owners in the Greater Vancouver Regional District up to $120 per year for transportation improvements to roads, public transit and bicycle paths. Supporters of the levy contend that divisive as the levy may be, it is a bold first step towards a user-pay system. The GVRD transportation system is badly in need of improvement and the levy is a quick and temporary way to finance the necessary work. However, even supporters of the scheme suggest that the levy should not be seen as the final solution. Instead, they urge Translink to move towards a usage-pay system, including a fuel tax, combined with road and bridge tolls. A pay-as-you-go system would encourage residents to drive less, or to drive more fuel-efficient vehicles. Regardless of how the public reacts to the levy system, Translink should commit to building a more equitable system to pay for the transportation improvements needed by the region