Langley’s largest infrastructure project is complete

Langley’s new $19 million Fraser Highway One-Way Revitalization Project was seven years in the making and started with the need to replace old pipes. The project’s ribbon-cutting ceremony occurred on September15 from 9:30 to 10:30 am.  

“The infrastructure underneath is from the turn of the last century,” said Langley mayor Nathan Pachal. “It was about time to replace the wood stave pipes. The major impetus was replacing the water, sewer, and storm sewer infrastructure.”

The project soon evolved into something more complex and incorporated more elements than originally intended. It became more about revitalizing the downtown area and incorporating more walkable elements. 

“I think around 2014 there was a Downtown Langley plan, and that envisioned a walkable, sort of like a Green Ribbon downtown that would connect basically from the bus loop all the way down to Douglas. So it was part of that vision of a walkable green downtown,” Pachal said. “To have a nice, walkable downtown that supports local business is really important for the council and the city.”

The project was complicated and, due to the aging infrastructure underneath, required a great deal of preparation prior to construction. According to Pachal, engineers had to study every pipe and piece of underground infrastructure and take core and soil samples. There were also some hiccups, such as when workers hit a gas main and had to fix it urgently. 

However, residents did not get to share their ideas for the space, as the city’s only public engagement efforts involved consulting with the business community in the area rather than regular residents. 

“There was a 2018 engagement, and that’s a while ago, and so that’s how the plan got selected, the way it is,” Pachal said. “It was really important to liaise with the business community. Obviously, this impacted their business during the construction and that’s why we wanted to minimize it, knowing that it would cause an impact to their business. There was a business liaison committee that met regularly to make sure that the city was doing all we could to support business and reduce the pain as much as possible.”

Pachal said the city hopes the greener spaces, wider sidewalks, and increased outdoor seating will attract more visitors, turning it into a destination for locals and visitors alike. 

“I think it already is a destination,” Pachal said. “And I think with SkyTrain coming now, if somebody wants up-and-coming, cool cafes and shops, this is the place to be.”