THE City of Delta has officially submitted a pre-budget consultation briefing to the federal Standing Committee on Finance, advocating for funding to support the construction of an overpass connecting River Road as part of the Fraser River Tunnel Replacement Project.

This initiative, endorsed at the July 22 Regular Meeting, is part of the City of Delta’s efforts to secure federal funds through the Standing Committee on Finance’s pre-budget consultations for the 2025 federal budget.

The briefing emphasizes the importance of integrating the River Road Overpass into the Tunnel Replacement Project, providing a crucial second exit from Ladner along the Highway 99 corridor. Discussions with the Province have indicated that federal financial assistance is required to move forward on the construction of an overpass.

“As we come closer to a federal election, it’s crucial for Delta to assertively advocate for our funding needs for this essential project to be included as part of the Fraser River Tunnel Replacement,” said Delta Mayor George V. Harvie. “This submission, and our ongoing lobbying efforts with both federal and provincial governments, are vital to securing this much-needed second exit out of Ladner to support our growing community.”

Each year, the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance invites Canadians to participate in pre-budget consultations. These discussions lead to recommendations for the Minister of Finance as they prepare the federal budget. 

To underscore the importance of the second exit, the City of Delta has engaged in continuous lobbying efforts with the federal government, including meetings in Ottawa between the Mayor and members of Parliament. During these discussions, it was advised that the City continue advocating for the inclusion of the River Road Overpass funding in an upcoming federal budget.

Delta’s briefing includes a request to appear before the Standing Committee on Finance. Copies of the written briefing will be provided to Delta’s member of Parliament, Delta’s two members of the Legislative Assembly, B.C.’s Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, and the Delta Chamber of Commerce.

To view Delta’s report and submission, visit: https://delta.civicweb.net/document/230665/.