Losing truck traffic a losing proposition

Federal officials have found municipalities in southwestern Nova Scotia are united in wanting the Digby-Saint John ferry service to continue.

During a closed consultation session June 26, a federal official reportedly suggested that a trucks-only ferry based in Yarmouth could handle commercial traffic now carried through Digby on the ‘Princess of Acadia’.

The session brought together officials from municipal units across the region and officials from Transport Canada and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.

Municipality of Digby warden Jim Thurber revealed last week that he was concerned by the suggestion, which he said was made by a Transport Canada official.

“I was worried that it might split the (municipalities) group,” Thurber told last week’s meeting of the Digby Area Board of Trade.

His fear was that Yarmouth might jump at the opportunity to increase its ferry business. However, Yarmouth mayor Charles Crosby quickly responded that the idea was not feasible and would harm Digby.

Thurber said losing truck traffic would seriously weaken the Digby-Saint John service financially if it continues past the January, 2009, deadline with current operator Bay Ferries.