AUCKLAND HARBOUR BRIDGE

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXI, Issue 21926, 9 October 1934, Page 13

AUCKLAND HARBOUR BRIDGE

Sir, —It seems to me that one essentia] matter in this connection is receiving insufficient attention. I refer to n definite and authoritative estimate of the cost of the bridge. Several estimates have been prepared, but as fair as I am aware or can ascertain they are all based on tentative designs and meagre information. This is inevitable in the very early stages* of a large undertaking, but the position now reached demands something more. Arguments about what is being done are getting us nowhere, but a reliable estimate of cost and a definite idea of the structure will make it possible to concentrate. If the probable cost is beyond our means there is an end of the project for the present, but if it seems practicable then something more tangible can be attempted with confidence. To get a sound estimate will cost a good (leal of money, but there is a preliminary stage which can now be undertaken with advantage. I suggest that if the Auckland branch the New Zealand Society of Civil Engineers be approached it may bo willing to ask those of its members who have suitable experience and sufficient interest in. the bridge scheme to form a voluntary committee to examine the available data and formulate a practicable programme. _ This committee, as an honorary association, would only be asked to indicate what further information is necessary lor estimating purposes, what steps should be taken, and what liability would be incurred in securing a full and sound estimate. I have no authority for saying that these engineers will agree to act in this way, but I feol sure they would rise to the occasion, and that they are capable of producing some plan of operations that would definitely advance the project. To be effective, it would be necessary for both the Bridge Company and the interested local authorities to give the committee unreservedly all information they have that would in any way influence their deliberations, and the status of the members can be taken as an assurance that where matters of a confidential nature have to be considered they would be treated in the proper manner. Personally I would regard it as an honour to be associated with such an undertaking, and hope other membors of our institution will take the same view. I commend the proposal to the company and to the Local Bodies' Committee and hope that one of them will take it up without delav. F. E. Powell, M.N.Z. Soc. C.E.