For Immediate Release
STATEMENT: Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce Welcomes $2.65 Billion for Highway 1 Expansion
Following years of chamber advocacy, new provincial funding continues phased expansion of critical corridor
ABBOTSFORD, B.C., - August 15th, 2024- The Abbotsford Chamber is welcoming the announcement of a $2.65 billion investment from the Province to fund Highway 1 expansion through from Mt Lehman Road in Abbotsford through to the Highway 11 connection with Mission – the fourth part of the phased widening of the critical corridor.
The expansion of Highway 1 has long been a key priority for the region, and the Chamber has advocated for the provincial government to expedite its widening and expansion through the Fraser Valley and out to Chilliwack. With 80,000 vehicles using the corridor daily, and $65 billion in goods transported annually, the importance of Highway 1 and the negative impact of congestion, traffic and delays cannot be overstated.
“This dedicated funding for construction will support the businesses and people that drive our growing region, meaning more Abbotsford workers, residents and businesses can get where they are going faster and safer,” says Alex Mitchell, CEO of the Abbotsford Chamber. “The Chamber has been advocating for this for many years, and now that the funding has been committed, we need to see a plan to expedite construction as fast as possible to keep Fraser Valley businesses moving.”
This $2.65 billion announcement will result in widening of the highway to add HOV lanes and bus-on-shoulder lanes in each direction, and replacement of the Peardonville Road overpass and Highway 11 Interchange. Procurement will begin in 2025 and major construction will start in 2026, with completion targeted for 2031.
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About the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce
The Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce has served the business community of Abbotsford with an attitude of vibrant engagement and proactive non-partisan advocacy for over 110 years. With over 700 members, it is the largest Chamber in the Fraser Valley, located in the 5th largest city in the province. The Abbotsford Chamber is nationally accredited to meet standards of business excellence and provide benefits to its member organizations.
Media contact:
Nathalie Darwin
Communications Manager
Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce
604-859-9651 x 301
