THE PARAKAI BRIDGE

Kaipara and Waitemata Echo, 17 July 1914, Page 5

THE PARAKAI BRIDGE

TO THE EDITOR,

SIR, —Re our new bridge, which is to take the place of the present old swing bridge, permit me to offer a suggestion to the parties concerned, viz,, the H.T.B. and the Mairetahi Riding. Some little time ago in discussing this matter, I gathered the information that it was decided to construct it 16ft wide at an estimated cost of £2000, which theoretically speaking, works out at £500 for each, four feet in width. I was also given to understand that it will take somewhere about £500 for a temporary bridge for traffic while this work. is being carried out, thus our new bridge would cost practically £2,500. I was also informed the cost is to be divided equally between the two local bodies aforementioned. Now, I would suggest that the ratepayers of the Mairetabi Riding be asked to find another £500, seeing their rates are much more than the H. T. Board rates, meaning, of course, road rates ; this, with, the £500 mentioned for temporary work, would give another £1000> making a total of £3000. This sum, while allowing for extra piles, would give another six feet in width, making it 22ft wide instead of 16ft wide. Now, to save this £500 abovementioned, I would like point out roughly how I propose doing it. First build 10ft of the new work close alongside the present old bridge, still using it for traffic, then as soon as the new work is fit for traffic open it and take away the old bridge, completing the new work by adding on the remaining 12ft, which would still leave the new bridge in a fairly central position. Now, Mr Editor, if it is possible to get this extra width for so small an outlay, which would ensure convenience and safety to wheel and pedestrian traffic, then the public would call down blessings instead of curses upon all concerned. —I am, etc., PARAKAI.