AS the City of Surrey announces the successful completion of the Nicomekl River Bridge on King George Boulevard, the Safe Surrey Coalition (SSC) said on Wednesday that the new bridge is a testament to the commitment of former mayor Doug McCallum and the SSC, and signifies a transformative step towards enhanced safety, connectivity, and infrastructure for the fast growing South Surrey community.

McCallum, a staunch advocate for the project since its inception, expressed his satisfaction with the realization of a long-standing community request. He said: “For 15 years, the South Surrey community has voiced the need for a modernized bridge, and today, we stand here having delivered on that ask. The completion of the Nicomekl River Bridge underscores our commitment to the safety and prosperity of our residents.”

The City of Surrey in 2022, under then-mayor McCallum’s leadership, spearheaded the $22.5 million project, replacing the outdated two-lane timber trestle bridge and the decommissioned single-lane Bailey Bridge. The new crossing not only increases the vehicle lanes from three to four but also introduces multi-use paths for walking and cycling.

Councillor Doug Elford, expressed his enthusiasm, saying: “The Nicomekl River Bridge is not just a structure; it’s a symbol of progress and collaboration. The enhancements to the corridor from the Park and Ride intersection to Crescent Road, coupled with the new bridge, will significantly improve safety, connectivity, and traffic flow.”

Councillor Mandeep Nagra echoed these sentiments, stating: “Today marks a milestone for South Surrey. The completion of the Nicomekl River Bridge and associated road improvements reflects our dedication to creating a vibrant and interconnected community. We listened to the needs of our residents, and this achievement is a testament to our commitment to their well-being and delivering real tangible results.”