Provincial and federal ministers joined the Corporation of Delta Thursday to celebrate the grand opening of the new 80th Street overpass.
"The completion of this portion of the Roberts Bank Rail Corridor is important to the Asia-Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative, as it connects the transportation system in Delta, making it more efficient for trade, motorists and pedestrians," said Randy Kamp, parliamentary secretary to the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans for the Asia-Pacific Gateway, who was there on behalf of Ed Fast, Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway.
"At the same time, it supports the Government of Canada's commitment to international trade while reducing traffic congestion and commute times for local residents, improving air quality and helping build a stronger national economy."
The Roberts Bank Rail Corridor (RBRC) program facilitates the transportation of large volumes of goods around the world.
The addition of the new overpass will help minimize traffic delays and provide direct access to Boundary Bay Airport and the surrounding industrial lands.
"The 80th Street overpass secures a long-term safe and robust transportation system for the Boundary Bay Airport and provides uninterrupted access for emergency services," said Delta Mayor Lois Jackson.
"This is a critical enhancement for the area and our community. We know the overpass is already helping aircraft operators and local businesses in their day-today work."
The overpass is one of nine RBRC road-rail projects initiated to enhance transportation safety and trade competitiveness along the Lower Mainland's road and railway corridors.
Funding for the project came from: the federal government ($7.2 million), the province ($2 million), Port Metro Vancouver ($4.8 million) and Delta ($1.48 million).
Delta, in partnership with Alpha Aviation, also contributed the land required for the overpass, which was valued at $4.5 million.
