12 January 2009
SURREY
Construction has officially begun on the South Fraser Perimeter Road, a joint building project of the Governments of Canada and British Columbia that will create jobs and improve traffic safety, travel and trade for families and businesses throughout metro Vancouver.
"The South Fraser Perimeter Road is a concrete example of how two levels of government are working together to take the steps needed to protect Canada's economy today and strengthen its foundations for the future," said Prime Minister Stephen Harper who joined International Trade Minister Stockwell Day at the official start of the construction . "I am pleased that both levels of government were able to finalize an agreement this fall and, soon after, get shovels in the ground."
"The South Fraser Perimeter Road Project will create an estimated 7,000 new jobs by 2021 and will build B.C.'s economic competitiveness by streamlining the movement of goods and people and ensuring we can tap into the trade opportunities with the Asia-Pacific," said Premier Campbell. "This project highlights our ongoing partnership with the Federal Government and the dedication that both our governments have to improving economic and business opportunities through the improved movement of goods and people."
The $1 billion South Fraser Perimeter Road Project is part of British Columbia's Gateway Program and the Government of Canada's Asia-Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative. The new 40 km four-lane router will directly link current port facilities, rail yards and industrial areas to Highways 1, 91 and 99. The new road will both improve transportation links for local residents and industry while taking congestion off of existing metro roadways.
