Roberts Bank Rail Corridor Upgrades Benefit Communities, Boosting Asia-Pacific Trade.
2011.16.09
DELTA, BRITISH COLUMBIA—Today, the Honourable Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway, Linda Reid, MLA for Richmond East and Deputy Speaker on behalf of the Honourable Blair Lekstrom, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and Robin Silvester, President and CEO of Port Metro Vancouver, joined Mayor Lois E. Jackson and other stakeholders to celebrate the construction of the 80 Street Overpass in Delta; an important investment along the Roberts Bank Rail Corridor (RBRC).
The 80 Street Overpass is the result of a successful funding partnership valued at $20 million with $7.2 million from the Government of Canada, $2 million from the Province of BC, $4.8 million from Port Metro Vancouver and $1.48 million from the Corporation of Delta. Delta also contributed the land required for the project, which was valued at $4.5 million.
“This project is part of our government’s commitment to creating jobs and stimulating economic growth in the region,” said Minister Fast. “Once completed, this grade separation will enhance rail operations and accommodate increased road and rail movements along the Roberts Bank Rail Corridor, an integral part of Canada’s Asia-Pacific Gateway and Corridor initiative.”
One of nine projects in the $307-million RBRC Program, the 80 Street Overpass will ease traffic congestion in the community of Delta. The RBRC program comprises of eight overpasses and one railway siding in a 70-kilometre stretch that connects Roberts Bank, Canada’s largest container facility and coal terminal, with the North American rail network. The RBRC is expected to carry increasing volumes of goods from around the world that we use here every day, as well as Canadian exports.
“The 80 Street Overpass will improve the quality of life for families by providing safer access in Delta,” said MLA Reid. “The Province is contributing $50 million to the Roberts Bank Rail Corridor program and today’s announcement means the project is moving ahead as another successful Pacific Gateway collaboration. By working together with our partners, the provincial government is enhancing trade competitiveness, creating jobs and driving the economy for years to come.”
The 80 Street Overpass project also includes the recently completed repaving of 72 Street, the creation of a new signalized intersection at Ladner Trunk Road and 72 Street, and the provision of an advanced warning system on Ladner Trunk Road to divert motorists to 80 Street when trains cross 72 Street.
“This is an excellent example of how partnership and cooperation between all levels of government and the private sector can achieve an outcome that will benefit not only our community but the Lower Mainland’s transportation infrastructure,” said Mayor Jackson.
The 80 Street Overpass will benefit Delta by minimizing traffic delays and providing safe, uninterrupted vehicle access to Boundary Airport – a key service enhancement to the Airport and the surrounding industrial areas.
“Along with the port community, we are investing $50 million in overpasses to improve safety and to separate road and rail traffic along the entire Roberts Bank Rail Corridor, from Delta to Langley,” said Robin Silvester. “We are pleased to work with our funding partners to advance infrastructure projects, like the 80 Street overpass, which benefit communities and support Canadian trade and jobs in the most sustainable way.”
Delta is overseeing the 80 Street Overpass project, which will be delivered on time and on budget. The Overpass is scheduled for completion by June 2012.
Contacts:
Rudy Husny
Press Secretary Office of the Honourable Ed Fast
Minister of International Trade, and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway
613-992-7332
Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250-356-8241
The Office of Mayor Lois E. Jackson
The Corporation of Delta
604-946-3210
Barbara Joy-Kinsella
Government Relations and Media Relations Advisor
Port Metro Vancouver
604-665-9267