Road through Surrey’s Bear Creek Park opens
Posted May 10, 2023 10:49 am.
Last Updated May 10, 2023 3:43 pm.
A controversial road extension of 84th Avenue through Surrey’s Bear Creek Park is officially open.
The city noted the opening on Tuesday, saying the extension “will improve connectivity for transit, pedestrians and cyclists.”
NEW: 84 Avenue is open between King George Boulevard and 140 Street. This will improve connectivity for transit, pedestrians and cyclists. Tractor trailer units are prohibited. #SurreyBC ^mg pic.twitter.com/ybZWpKSCY4
— Surrey Traffic (@SurreyTraffic) May 10, 2023
The extension runs through the park from King George Boulevard and 140 Street.
Council approved the design in June 2021. This came despite strong opposition to the project, both from some councillors and residents who frequent the green space.
At the time, then-Mayor Doug McCallum cited safety concerns along busy roads in the area, adding the extension would help alleviate some of the traffic.
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However, critics argued there was a way to address worries without building a road through the park.
Officials have contended the road was not being built through the park, adding that would have required a bylaw and a separate process.
“We’re going to enhance the area of land that’s been totally unused for many many years. And that’s going to provide more public access and allow for people to enjoy more parts of the area,” Coun. Doug Elford said in 2021.
