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Dear Sir,

I have been reading the recently published letters regarding the proposed Causeway Bridge and feel compelled to offer comments.

The proposed public-private partnership to finance this project will result in a project cost significantly more than a typical public financed project. This type of financing has advantages when the finished project results in an income stream that is dedicated to the retirement of the project debt.

Based on my review of the Budget, the employment situation and the softening of construction in Bermuda, an alternative that will offer employment for Bermudians would be the most cost effective plan.

As an alternative I suggest that consideration be given to construction of an appropriate breakwater parallel to the Causeway with a top elevation that would protect it from wave and surge action expected during severe storms.

The area between the breakwater and the Causeway would be backfilled and landscaped to provide an area that would create favourable comment from both visitors and locals.

In the event a decision is taken to close the waterway at the existing bridge, the breakwater can be extended to the airport and continued along the shoreline - thereby protecting the airport facility from storm surge.

This construction will result in permanent protection for the Causeway in its present location, provide local employment and be completed for significantly less that the design, construction and maintenance of an elevated structure.

Charles W. Nearon, Pennsylvania[[In-content Ad]]

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