Surrey officials urge travellers to anticipate lengthy weekend border lineups
Posted May 21, 2022 9:53 am.
Last Updated May 21, 2022 9:58 am.
As British Columbians pursue Victoria Day long weekend plans, Surrey RCMP is advising the public to plan ahead, monitor border lineups, and be prepared for lengthy wait times at border crossings.
According to Mounties, on Easter long weekend police received in excess of 100 calls from the public, including people calling 911 to complain about border wait times and traffic congestion near the Pacific Highway Border Crossing. Police say the calls tied up resources and were a misuse of the emergency service.
Police say drivers using the Pacific Highway Border crossing should remain on main roads and highways, specifically 176 Street and 8 Avenue to access the crossing. They urge not to take short cuts through residential neighborhoods or block access to side streets while waiting in line.
Drivers using the Pacific Highway Border crossing this long weekend – stay on 176 St/8 Ave and do not cut through residential side streets to access the border. Plan your trip outside of peak times and monitor wait times before you go. Read more: https://t.co/okxqB6KLLg @DriveBC pic.twitter.com/SJd3PQdRBe
— Surrey RCMP (@SurreyRCMP) May 20, 2022
We recognize the frustrations of community members who reside near the border crossing who had access to their own homes or businesses limited by border traffic over the last long weekend,
said Cpl. Vanessa Munn.
Meanwhile, the Canada Border Services Agency says people can expect a border that is managed differently, with evolving COVID-19 requirements.
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The CBSA says part of speeding up the process during peak times includes getting all your information in the ArriveCan app up to 72 hours before you return to Canada, as the Monday of holiday long weekends tends to be the busiest.
“We encourage travelers to be proactive if their plans include crossing the border, be prepared to wait, and do not call police to complain about the wait times,” Munn added.
For the most up to date border wait times tune into to vancouver.citynews.ca/border.
