Congestion on our streets, highways, and bridges in the Lower Mainland is an unending concern for commuters. As the region’s population continues to soar the problem will only get worse if we do not immediately invest in transportation infrastructure.
The Conservative government of Stephen Harper believes a modern, efficient transportation system is integral to the well-being of Canada’s economy, and essential for Canada to be competitive in continental and global markets. That is why we have committed $33-billion for new infrastructure projects. This investment is essential to assist provinces and territories struggling to cope with a mounting infrastructure deficit after years of neglect by the former Liberal government.
British Columbia’s Lower Mainland, as Canada’s gateway to the Pacific, is a vital cog in the transportation infrastructure of our nation. That is why our government is investing a significant amount of money in the region to address the transportation needs of British Columbians.
The Pacific Gateway Initiative will invest $1 billion for a variety of infrastructure, transportation technology, and border security projects. The money will fund dozens of projects that will allow our ports to capture a larger share of the west coast shipping market, and result in more business opportunities and jobs for British Columbians.
The first project under this initiative is a new seven-lane bridge across the Pitt River. Our government is providing $90-million in funding to help reduce congestion and improve the movement of people and goods to boost our economy and our quality of life.
We have also joined with the provincial government in a $15.4-million cost-sharing project to widen the Highway 15 corridor from Surrey to the United States border. By building a continuous four-lane highway from the Trans-Canada Highway to the Pacific Highway border crossing we hope to improve safety, reduce freight costs, and enhance the economy of the Lower Mainland.
Our government is also contributing $1-million toward a new on-ramp and off-ramp along Highway 1 in Surrey. These ramps will take pressure off the congested 176 Street interchange and give industrial traffic a more direct connection into Port Kells via 192 Street, thereby reducing traffic through local neighbourhoods along Barnston Drive.
Other recent projects include $61-million in funding aimed at reducing the environmental and health effects of freight transportation, new regulations to ensure the long-term reliability of Lower Mainland ports for shippers and clients, nearly $1-million for 42 safety improvements at railway crossings in British Columbia, almost $10-million in funding for urban transit security projects, and $54-million in funding to Translink to help with the purchase of new buses.
During the last election campaign we promised to ‘Stand Up’ for British Columbia. From solving the softwood lumber dispute, to getting tough on crime, to a massive investment in our infrastructure, we are ensuring that British Columbia’s interests are finally being addressed.
