Surrey launches 2-year Sidewalk Action Plan to improve access near schools, parks, and transit, aiming to add 558 km of sidewalks over 50 years.
City Endorses Strategic Infrastructure Push
Surrey City Council has approved a comprehensive “Sidewalk Action Plan,” launching 23 sidewalk improvement projects over the next two years. The initiative is designed to enhance pedestrian safety and accessibility across key public zones including schools, bus stops, and parks.
Gaps in Sidewalk Coverage Across the City
Surrey currently has more than 2,000 kilometres of roads, yet large portions remain without proper pedestrian infrastructure. According to city engineering reports, 63 kilometres of arterial and collector roads have no sidewalks, 118 kilometres have only one, and 377 kilometres of local roads are completely lacking. The city’s goal is to bridge a structural sidewalk deficit totaling 558 kilometres.
A Long-Term Commitment with a Phased Approach
The 23 upcoming projects are part of a longer 50-year strategy to install sidewalks citywide. City staff estimate completing the full network would cost between $400 and $500 million. On average, Surrey adds 7 to 10 kilometres of sidewalks annually.
Prioritizing Pedestrian Safety and Public Access
The approved framework uses data-driven criteria to rank project urgency, with a focus on vulnerable road users, traffic patterns, and pedestrian activity. Arterial roads—especially those near town centres and truck routes—will be prioritized. Safety improvements will benefit 23 schools, 55 transit stops, and 23 parks in the short term.
Insights from Residents and Urban Planners
Feedback gathered between 2021 and 2023 during the Surrey Transportation Plan consultations revealed that residents prioritize walkability to elementary schools, grocery stores, parks, and transit within 800 metres of their homes. These preferences shaped how city engineers refined the action plan and project selection.
Vision for a More Walkable Future
Scott Neuman, General Manager of Engineering, acknowledged the historical lack of pedestrian planning in B.C.’s urban design, noting that many roads were developed before sidewalk standards were updated in the 1980s and 1990s. “This plan reflects a pragmatic and holistic approach to correct that legacy,” Neuman stated.
Council’s Support and Funding Strategy
Mayor Brenda Locke highlighted the significance of the plan and its connection to the city’s road levy. “This is really good news,” she said. “It’s a great use of the road levy to make our city more walkable and better connected.”
