The City of Maple Ridge has a plan to push Abernethy Way from 232 to 240 Street, and is about to start buying land.
Mayor Dan Ruimy explained how this $50 million project will provide another critical east-west route, four lanes wide, reducing traffic congestion through the fast-growing city.
He said it will also get the city closer to opening a route to what the city calls “employment lands” in the 256th Street industrial area. Ruimy sees the 800 acres of industrial land as key to providing more jobs in the city, stoking economic development.
“This has the potential to be the most impactful project we’re working on,” said Ruimy.
This next phase of the Abernethy Way Corridor Improvements Project will extend the road along 124 Avenue.The city has begun the process of dealing with property owners, having sent them information by registered mail.
There will be 53 properties impacted by the route, and they will be compensated according to provincial laws.
Ruimy acknowledged 19 of those will be “more impacted.”
“We want to be fair,” said the mayor. “Some will be easier than others.”
“These are people’s homes, and lands they’re attached to,” he said. “Some have lived there a long time.”
“We really want to collaborate with the land owners, and find what’s fair for everybody.”
The $50 million budget includes property acquisitions.
Councillors looked at options, and chose the most direct route along 124 Avenue after technical studies, an environmental review, and based on community engagement.
Planning the multi-phase project started in 2008, to create a four-lane arterial road stretching from 210 Street to 240 Street, with a future connection to 256 Street.
“Abernethy Way is a vitally important infrastructure project for our growing community of over 110,000,” said Mayor Dan Ruimy. “By extending this east-west corridor, we are unlocking economic potential through improved access to over 600 acres of industrial lands on 256 Street. It will reduce congestion on Lougheed Highway and Dewdney Trunk Road, enhance access to Silver Valley and provide safer cycling and pedestrian connections. This is an investment in the future of Maple Ridge.”
Key features of the Abernethy Way extension will include:
• Four lanes between 232 and 240 Streets with turning lanes at key intersections.
• A sidewalk on the south side, and a multi-use pathway on the north side.
• Upgraded intersections and municipal utilities, including new creek crossings.
• Green infrastructure, landscaping, and tree planting.
The road design, property owner negotiations and property acquisition will take place this year, with construction to begin in 2027.
The extension of Abernethy Way to 256th is also in planning.