CAQ’s Proposed Route for Third Link Faces Strong Rejection in Lévis
Lévis Prepares for Election Amid New Third-Link Debates
Election Day Countdown in Lévis: Candidates with Experience Vie for Leadership
On November 2nd, the citizens of Lévis will head to the polls to elect a new mayor. With three seasoned candidates in the running, the debate over the future of the city’s infrastructure, particularly the controversial third-link project, has taken center stage. The candidates—Isabelle Demers, Serge Bonin, and Steven Blaney—though diverse in their visions, collectively agree that the current proposal for the third link by the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) is inadequate.
Key Points of Contention: Location of the Proposed Third Link
Isabelle Demers, a leading contender and former ally of departing mayor Gilles Lehouillier, alongside opposition councilor Serge Bonin and ex-federal minister Steven Blaney, argue that the link should be situated to the east of Lévis instead of the central location proposed by the Legault government this past June. “Currently, reaching the proposed route is almost impossible; Highway 20 is constantly congested,” commented Demers, head of Lévis Force 10.
Steven Blaney: A Veteran Politician Enters the Race
Steven Blaney, who previously announced his retirement in 2021 after a successful 15-year stint as the federal representative for Lévis, has re-entered the political arena following Gilles Lehouillier’s departure announcement. “The central corridor proposed is not the right choice,” he remarked, emphasizing his preference for an eastern link that includes crossing Île d’Orléans.
Serge Bonin’s Mobility Blueprint for Lévis
Opposition candidate Serge Bonin unveiled a mobility plan that includes dedicated lanes for a Rapid Bus Service (RBS) to ease regional transportation issues. Bonin, also an advocate for an eastern third link, proposes using Île d’Orléans to keep costs manageable. He is open to the idea of implementing a toll system to benefit island residents.
Isabelle Demers and the Trust Dilemma
Isabelle Demers, who has 16 years of counsel experience, pointed out a decline in public trust towards the CAQ, despite previous promises of advancing the third-link project. While Demers is open to the central corridor as a compromise, she questions the government’s pursuit of cheaper alternatives.
Steven Blaney’s Campaign: Back to Basics
Blaney aims to prioritize essential city services such as waterworks and road maintenance, stating, “Residents find some roads are in poor condition, and funds will be reallocated to address these issues.” His no-nonsense approach focuses on fundamental services over ceremonial costs.
Serge Bonin’s Surprising Rise in Lévis Politics
Former actor and Parti Québécois candidate Serge Bonin caught many by surprise when he won a council seat in 2021. Leading the Repensons Lévis movement, Bonin supports both the third-link initiative and highway expansion. His agenda also includes building more sidewalks, vital for managing urban traffic congestion.
Isabelle Demers’ Vision Beyond the Third Link
Demers, who began her political career in 2001 under Jean Garon, is determined to extend Highway 20 westward beyond the third-link project. Her comprehensive platform encompasses educational safety with traffic calming measures and a tax policy that curbs increases to match inflation rates.
