Investing in urban transportation networks helps build a solid foundation for more inclusive, prosperous and sustainable cities. Such investments help reduce congestion, create economic growth opportunities and help get people to and from their destinations safely and efficiently.
Randeep Sarai, member of parliament for Surrey Centre, on behalf of the Honorable Amarjeet Sohi, minister of infrastructure and communities; the Honorable Peter Fassbender, minister of community, sport and cultural development and minister responsible for TransLink; Councillor Dave Woods, on behalf of Linda Hepner, Mayor of Surrey; and Kevin Desmond, CEO of TransLink celebrated the upcoming start of upgrades to Surrey Central SkyTrain Station.
The $25-million project will feature a new elevator, three new escalators, a new staircase and improved lighting. Two new entrances on the north side of the station will improve capacity, accessibility, safety and wayfinding. Situated in an area that has experienced significant development, including the Simon Fraser University Surrey campus, new residential high-rises, and the North Surrey Recreation Centre, station improvements will enhance integration into the surrounding urban environment.
Surrey Central Station is one of seven stations on the Expo Line targeted for upgrades to ensure that rapid transit meets the transportation needs of residents in the region for years to come. Construction is underway at Commercial-Broadway Station, Metrotown Station, and Joyce-Collingwood Station and upgrades have already been completed at New Westminster Station, Scott Road Station and Main Street-Science World Station. When complete, these upgrades will introduce a total of 5,920 square meters of additional space, nine new elevators and 20 new escalators that will improve accessibility.
Construction will begin in early April and is expected to be completed by the end of 2018.
“With ridership up 4.5 percent in 2016, it’s clear demand for transit is continuing to grow as the population grows. Investments like the renovations at Surrey Central Station and at the six other stations along the Expo line are essential to help us keep customers moving smoothly and create a vibrant, welcoming hub that’s part of the surrounding community," said Kevin Desmond, CEO, TransLink.
