The provincial government is gearing up for a significant infrastructure upgrade with the commencement of the Fraser Valley Highway 1 Corridor Improvement Program, slated to begin this summer. The initiative aims to tackle the persistent issue of lengthy commuting times faced by residents traveling to and from Vancouver and within the region.
The upcoming construction will encompass various enhancements along a crucial stretch of approximately 10 kilometers between 216 and 264 Streets. One of the key features of the expansion includes the addition of HOV lanes in both eastbound and westbound directions, geared towards facilitating smoother bus commutes and encouraging carpooling. Furthermore, the new interchange at 232 Street is designed not only to improve traffic flow but also to prioritize safety measures, notably by providing wider multi-use pathways for pedestrians and cyclists and increasing height to accommodate commercial trucks up to 5.2 meters.
This expansion marks the first phase in a series of planned improvements, with further widening intended all the way to Chilliwack. Despite initial cost estimates rising from $235.5 million in 2017 to $345 million, the project has received significant financial support from the federal government, with a commitment of over $96 million through the Building Canada Fund.
