The South Fraser Perimeter Road officially opened Saturday.
Delta-Richmond East MP Kerry-Lynne Findlay, the Minister of National Revenue, was joined by B.C. Transportation Minister Todd Stone to open the new four-lane 40-kilometre highway.
The SFPR is now officially called Highway 17 and the old Highway 17 in South Delta becomes Highway 17A
"The completion of the South Fraser Perimeter Road is good news for the Metro Vancouver region. It means a better road network and more capacity to transport goods to and from fast-growing markets throughout the Asia-Pacific region," said Findlay. "This project demonstrates that when we work together with our partners through the Asia Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative, we can develop projects that facilitate international trade and create jobs and economic growth in local communities across Canada."
The new highway connects to all five major Fraser River crossings, which will save motorists time and offer more travel options.
"The SFPR is a key part of our commitment to expanding our markets and improving the safe and efficient movement of goods and people," said Stone. "This new route is a game-changer for industry, commuters and tourists - it will cut commute times for families and make B.C. more competitive by connecting key port and rail facilities with access to borders, the Tsawwassen ferry terminal and the B.C. Interior."
The province notes the SFPR will generate economic and business opportunities and lead to 7,000 long-term jobs in Delta and Surrey through improved industrial development opportunities along the corridor. More than 4,000 jobs were created during construction.
"Our community will benefit hugely from the opening of the South Fraser Perimeter Road," said Delta Mayor Lois Jackson. "The new route provides greater access to the Tilbury industrial area, taking commercial trucks off Highway 99 and River Road. This will make for safer, smoother travel for our residents throughout the community.
The billion dollar project will provide an efficient and convenient transportation corridor, with connections to major trade gateways for commercial traffic, according to the province, adding it's key to Asia-Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative.
Next on the government's agenda is the construction of a new bridge that will replace the George Massey Tunnel. A number of technical studies are underway for that mega project, slated for construction in 2017.
