THE City of Surrey has been recognized by the BC Recreation and Parks Association with two prestigious provincial awards, celebrating innovation, leadership, and community engagement in recreation, parks and culture.

“These awards highlight Surrey’s commitment to creating outstanding events, programs, and facilities that have a meaningful impact on our community,” said Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke on Friday. “Our council prioritizes the development of parks and civic facilities to support our rapidly growing city. This recognition reflects our dedication to fostering high-quality and accessible recreation opportunities that enhance residents’ quality of life and connect our community. Together, we are building a city where everyone matters—a place that celebrates diversity, supports families, and fosters a sense of belonging.”

The Surrey Accessibility Leadership Team (SALT) received the Community Leadership Award, acknowledging its outstanding contributions in fostering accessible and inclusive environments throughout Surrey’s Parks, Recreation and Culture programs and services. SALT is dedicated to advancing inclusion for all Surrey residents. Composed of City of Surrey staff and community members with diverse lived experiences of disability and identity, the team works to address systemic barriers and advocate for equitable access to programs, services and public spaces.

“We are incredibly proud of the Surrey Accessibility Leadership Team for being recognized with the Community Leadership Award,” said Amit, Co-chair SALT. “This honour reflects the dedication and vision of a team committed to building a more inclusive city.  Through lived experience and diversity, SALT continues to lead meaningful change in how we design and deliver accessible recreation and park services across Surrey.”

In addition, Totest Aleng: Indigenous Learning House received the Facility Excellence Award for capital projects under $6 million. This award recognizes outstanding facility design that reflect community culture and ultimately enhances the wellbeing of the community. Totest Aleng is a unique space that is dedicated to Indigenous cultural practices, employing or collaborating with Indigenous cultural practitioners through artist residencies, public workshops and lectures, special events, private gatherings, and curriculum-current school programs.

“Totest Aleng: Indigenous Learning House receiving the Facility Excellence Award is a testament to meaningful and respectful consultation and collaboration.” Said Kristin Hardie, Heritage Services Manager. “This is a special space that enables a broad range of Indigenous cultural programming and celebrates community connections and learning. We are honoured to see it recognized this way.”

BC Recreation and Parks Association program recognizes outstanding special events, programs, facilities, parks and dedicated individuals whose ideas, innovation, and services make an impact in the recreation, parks and culture sector.