Broadway Subway must develop in parallel with SkyTrain expansion in Surrey
- Media Release
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- For immediate release — December 10, 2012
Transit advocates with SkyTrain for Surrey are calling for a coordinated, region‑wide approach to rapid transit investment, emphasizing that the Broadway Subway extension in Vancouver must advance in parallel with SkyTrain expansion in Surrey to maintain system balance and meet long‑term ridership demand.
“Growth in Surrey and growth along Broadway are deeply interconnected,” says Daryl Dela Cruz, founder of the SkyTrain for Surrey organization. “If Surrey expands rapid transit, pressure increases on Broadway. If Broadway expands rapid transit, pressure increases on Surrey. The only responsible solution is to advance both projects together at the same time.”
Dela Cruz notes that a phased strategy could maintain regional balance: prioritizing Central Broadway to Arbutus and Surrey’s SkyTrain extension first, followed by future expansions to UBC and Langley. But he adds: “Whatever sequencing is chosen, Surrey’s rapid transit expansion must be SkyTrain.”
The organization warns that Surrey cannot afford to adopt an inferior at‑grade LRT system. “An LRT network would impose reliability challenges and slower travel times on commuters already facing a transportation crisis,” says Dela Cruz. “Surrey needs a high‑performance system that supports long‑term growth, not one constrained by short‑sighted expectations.”
SkyTrain for Surrey continues to advocate for a rapid transit plan that strengthens both sides of the region—ensuring that Vancouver’s Broadway corridor and Surrey’s urban centres grow with the same level of modern, grade‑separated rapid transit.
Pictured in header: Early render of SkyTrain on King George Boulevard at 96 Ave (Surrey Rapid Transit Study design guide, TransLink)
SkyTrain for Surrey is a BC-based community organization that has advocated for the expansion of the Vancouver SkyTrain system, including our successful advocacy for the under-construction Surrey Langley SkyTrain extension.
Media Contact: Daryl Dela Cruz – Founder, SkyTrain for Surrey ・ Phone: +1 604 329 3529, [email protected]
