A popular staircase in South Surrey will be closed this fall and winter for major restoration work.
Originally built in the late 1980s, 1,001 Steps – located in the 12500 block of 15A Avenue – must be removed and replaced, as the aging structure is at the end of its life cycle, according to the city. Serving as "a crucial recreational feature for residents and visitors alike," the pathway and steps offer amazing ocean views, with opportunities for viewing harbour seals and other wildlife.
On Monday, Surrey council approved awarding the contract for the work, which will include the removal and disposition of the existing stair/landing structure and the construction of a new stair system including new foundations, to Calta Construction Inc, deemed the "best value" submission received through the request for proposal process.
The project, which has an estimated cost of $724,500, is expected to start in late October, with completion scheduled for the end of March 2025.
“This renovation will not only enhance the safety and accessibility of the 1001 Steps but will also preserve this beloved community landmark for future generations to enjoy,” said Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke in a Tuesday release.
“We are committed to investing in our parks and recreation infrastructure to improve the quality of life for residents in Surrey, with $1.7B in approved capital projects over five years.”
The stairs will be closed to the public for the duration of the work. Alternative park stairs are located at 131E Greenbelt (13090 13 Ave.) and Christopherson Steps (2409 Christopherson Rd.).
Funding for the contract is available in the approved 2024 Parks, Recreation & Culture capital budget, the city noted.
Although there are not really 1,001 steps in the structure, there are plenty that zig zag 40 metres down to a pathway that parallels the Burlington Northern rail line; about 200 metres along the trail, there's an underpass that provides access to the beach.
Don Pitcairn, a South Surrey resident who knows the area well, understands the restoration work must happen but hopes area residents are paying attention.
"It's going to create a big problem... a lot of people in the Ocean Park area access the beach there – that's also where the tunnel is to access the beach," he noted. "Christopherson Steps will be way busier."
