Editor, The News:
Everyone wants to feel safe on the roads they use to get around — whether it’s for commuting to work or getting across town for an appointment.
I’ve heard from people in Mission, Maple Ridge, and especially those from Whonnock that safety along Highway 7 is a serious concern.
Having lived in Maple Ridge for many years, I’ve heard many tragic stories of crashes, often resulting in loss of life.
READ ALSO: Work starts for a wider, safer highway from Maple Ridge to Mission.
I have spoken with Claire Trevena, minister of transportation and infrastructure, about the importance of finishing the work on Highway 7 and addressing outstanding concerns.
I have advocated for improvements to highways and roads all across the region. I’m glad we’re delivering on significant improvements to Highway 7, including the four-laning of many stretches of the road, which will keep traffic flowing safely, and reduce the chance of a crossover accident.
We’ve doubled the length of the eastbound left-turn lane at the Highway 11-Highway 7 intersection, and installed new LED lighting to make it easier for drivers to see clearly, especially at night.
These upgrades will go a long way in making our streets safer, but we have more work to do.
The parts of Highway 7 that have not yet been upgraded into four lanes are boxed in by rock on one side and ditches on the other.
RELATED: Ministry to install median barrier on Highway 7 in Maple Ridge.
These conditions make this last stretch particularly difficult to upgrade.
But there is a way forward, and I am confident this work will begin soon.
I will continue to advocate for this much-needed project and upgrades to roads in our community. I understand how important completing the four-laning of Highway 7 is to the people in this area, and I share your concerns.
I’ll continue working with Minister Trevena to ensure upgrades will go ahead and I will keep the community updated on the progress of the project.
Bob D’Eith, MLA
Maple Ridge-Mission
