Editor:
I read with interest the latest announcements in the Peace Arch News: a $5,384,600 contract awarded for the Surrey SkyTrain, including the widening of Fraser Highway from 96 Avenue to 148 Street, $143,000 for upgrades and sidewalks in the Douglas border crossing area, and the construction boom in the North Campbell Heights industrial park.
While these projects indicate Surrey is moving in the right direction, is anyone at City Hall paying attention to the congestion of our major roads in South Surrey, namely 16th, 24th and 32nd Avenues?
Noteworthy on one of our busiest roads – King George Boulevard – is the Bailey Bridge over the Nicomekl River, which was installed at least 40 years ago.
These prefabricated structures were designed by the British during the Second World War to replace bridges that were destroyed during the war and were meant to be temporary in nature.
Who knows when a new permanent bridge will be constructed at this location despite numerous statements over the years that one will soon be coming. Maybe we should have a heritage sign at each end of the bridge?
Looking at the 10-year capital plan for road improvements, there is very little mentioned for these streets, even though the area is booming.
I have lived in the South Surrey area since 1963 and we still have most of these major routes as single lane roads including 16 Avenue, which is now designated as a major truck route.
Is anyone at City Hall listening?
Bob Halsey, South Surrey