Surrey, BC – Mayor Brenda Locke delivered a dynamic and forward-looking 2025 State of the City Address, showcasing Surrey’s extraordinary growth and setting the tone for a bold new era. With Surrey on track to become the first city in B.C. to reach a population of one million, Mayor Locke highlighted the city’s transformation into a regional powerhouse and unveiled ambitious projects focused on innovation, livability, and inclusivity.
“Surrey’s future shines bright, driven by bold ideas and continuous progress,” said Mayor Locke. “As our city enters a new era, our vision is for a community where opportunity, diversity, and innovation flourish side by side—a city where everyone matters.”
Key Highlights from Mayor Locke’s Address:
New 10,000-Seat Arena in City Centre:
A major highlight was the announcement of a new 10,000-seat arena in Surrey’s City Centre, part of a broader vision to create an entertainment district with hotels, conference facilities, retail, and restaurants. This landmark project is set to energize downtown Surrey, attract major events, and generate local economic growth.
Creation of Surrey Healthcare Administrator Role:
To address urgent healthcare needs, the City will appoint a new Surrey Healthcare Administrator. This role will drive health innovation by coordinating with Fraser Health, Simon Fraser University, and community partners, exploring solutions such as city-supported family physician models to improve access and equity.
Launch of Surrey 2050 Growth Strategy:
Mayor Locke unveiled plans for the Surrey 2050 strategy, a comprehensive vision for housing, employment, transit, green space, and community planning. This initiative ensures that Surrey’s unique needs and ambitions are central to regional decision-making.
Community Infrastructure Expansion:
- A $66 million expansion of Chuck Bailey Recreation Centre.
- The new $310 million Newton Community Centre, featuring a pool, gym, and 45,000 sq. ft. library.
- Completion of the $132 million Cloverdale Sport & Ice Complex, and revitalization of the Cloverdale Fairgrounds and Town Centre.
Transportation and Transit Investment:
Surrey is launching its largest-ever road project: the 72 Avenue east-west corridor, alongside progress on the Surrey-Langley SkyTrain and the King George Bus Rapid Transit line.
Housing and Affordability Initiatives:
With a record 6,297 new homes approved in 2024, Surrey is accelerating housing supply. The Gateway project will bring 1,800 new units to the city’s core. New zoning policies will also allow secondary suites in townhouses near transit, boosting affordable housing for families.
Public Safety and Fiscal Responsibility:
Mayor Locke emphasized a balanced approach: a 2.8% general tax increase plus a 1% road levy, among the lowest in the region. The City will also hire 25 police officers, 20 firefighters, and 10 by-law officers. Surrey also secured $250 million from the Province to help cover policing costs.
“We are proving that a city can grow fast and still stay affordable,” Locke said. “Sound fiscal stewardship and visionary investment go hand in hand.”
A Vision for Unity and Growth:
Mayor Locke concluded her address with a call for collaboration: “Surrey’s spirit is built on kindness, hard work, and innovation. Together, we’re not just talking about the future—we’re building it.”