For Immediate Release
June 8, 2007

John Baird Opposes New Bridge in West End

(OTTAWA) – Concerned residents of the city’s west-end have a new ally in their fight against plans for a new interprovincial bridge built in the area. Residents of the Crystal Beach and Lakeview communities have raised their voice in opposition and found support in John Baird, the local Ottawa West-Nepean M.P. who represents the residents of these communities at the federal level.

“A bridge constructed in the west-end would not benefit the residents of Ottawa, especially since it would not help reduce traffic congestion in the downtown core,” said Baird, also the federal Minister of the Environment. “I am of the opinion that plans to construct an interprovincial crossing should continue to focus on the east-end as the only option in order to alleviate heavy-truck traffic on King Edward Avenue where it has become a major concern for those communities.”

Baird, a life-long Ottawa resident, maintains that he has always been opposed to any such bridge developments in the west end of the city. “The Champlain Bridge continues to provide an adequate route for west-end residents going to Quebec, and for Quebec residents coming to Ontario,” said Baird.

Always passionate about defending the interests of his constituents, Baird stated, “As the M.P. for Ottawa West-Nepean, I would like concerned residents to know that I oppose any such project in the west-end of Ottawa.”

The National Capital Commission announced on May 22nd that they will be launching the first round of public consultation for the Interprovincial Crossings Environmental Assessment in Canada’s Capital Region from June 6th to June 18th in Ottawa and Gatineau.

The objective of this first round of consultation is to seek public input on the draft terms of reference, the study process, the preliminary alternative planning solutions and preliminary optional crossing alternatives. The public consultation in the west end of the city will be held Wednesday, June 13 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Kanata Recreation Complex, 100 Walter Baker Place, Kanata.

Further information:

Office of John Baird, MP
Ottawa West-Nepean
613-996-0984