Mayor Jackson & Chamber Host Local Business Meeting

5:00 pm

On May 19, 2011, Mayor Lois E. Jackson, in partnership with the Delta Chamber of Commerce, hosted a breakfast meeting for businesses operating on Annacis Island and Tilbury Industrial Park.

The meeting, held at the North Delta Public Safety Building, provided an opportunity for local business owners to learn about important infrastructure projects and emerging transportation issues affecting Delta. Following presentations, attendees were given the opportunity to ask questions directly of Mayor Lois E. Jackson, Delta senior staff, representatives from the Chamber of Commerce and the Gateway Program.

"The meeting was a great opportunity to interact with owners of local businesses in Delta," said Mayor Lois E. Jackson. "I wanted to ensure they are aware of recent infrastructure improvements that we have undertaken, understand issues related to the South Fraser Perimeter Road; and most importantly, I heard what they had to say and listened to their concerns."

"As Mayor, I remain very concerned over the Province's proposal to construct intersections instead of interchanges along the Delta portion of the South Fraser Perimeter Road. I will be taking these concerns from our business community to the Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure regarding the need for interchanges now rather than 7 to 10 years from completion of the South Fraser Perimeter Road; this issue is a top priority for Delta."

Geoff Freer, Executive Director of the Gateway Program, presented information on the development and current status of the South Fraser Perimeter Road and its future impacts to Delta industrial areas.

Delta Police Inspector Kaare Coupar discussed current enforcement issues affecting business owners in local industrial areas including theft of various machinery, equipment and metal.

Delta's Director of Engineering, Steven Lan, presented information on transportation improvements recently completed by Delta to enhance traffic and pedestrian safety and also expedite the movement of goods and commutes in the Tilbury, Sunbury, and Annacis areas. Improvements include the final phase of River Road widening, transit and pedestrian improvements in Tilbury Industrial Park and on Annacis Island, and two intersection improvements on Annacis Island.

Delta's Deputy Director of Engineering, Hugh Fraser, discussed the potential for spring freshet flooding in Delta. The snowpack is at an average level this year and flooding in Delta is unlikely; however, given the cooler than normal spring, Delta remains vigilant and is prepared for any potential increase in water flow and rise in water levels along the Fraser River.

For more information on this media release, contact the Mayor's Office at (604) 946-3210 or email mayor@corp.delta.bc.ca

-30-