SkyTrain extension to Langley will be named for Dave Barrett

The Surrey Langley SkyTrain extension will be called the Dave Barrett Extension, after the former premier. The Province says the name honours his lasting contributions to public service and his role in shaping British Columbia.

For people in Metro Vancouver, the line will add 16 kilometres of rapid transit from King George Station in Surrey to Langley City Centre. It will include eight new stations. The Province says it will connect growing communities south of the Fraser River to jobs, housing, education and services across the region.

Construction and timing

The Province says construction is progressing along the Fraser Highway corridor, with guideway installation now more than 60% complete. Service is expected to begin in 2029.

The names of the eight stations have been publicly announced. The Province is also continuing to work with participating First Nations, including Katzie, Kwantlen, Matsqui, Musqueam, Semiahmoo and Tsawwassen, on ways to recognize their cultures and communities as part of the project.

Key details

• The line will operate as an extension of the Expo Line.
• Once complete, travel time from Langley City Centre to King George Station will be 22 minutes.
• By 2050, average weekday ridership is expected to reach 80,000 passengers.
• The project includes 14 kilometres of active transportation paths, including dedicated bike and multi-use pathways.

Dave Barrett's legacy

Dave Barrett served as British Columbia's 26th premier from 1972 until 1975. His government introduced reforms and institutions including the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia, the Agricultural Land Reserve and B.C.'s PharmaCare program. His government also conceived, planned and approved the SeaBus service.

Premier David Eby said Barrett "spent his life fighting for ordinary people." Transportation Minister Mike Farnworth said that in the mid-1970s, Barrett's government helped expand and connect transit services in Surrey, Delta, White Rock and Langley.

Source: BC Gov News