SURREY, B.C. — Work is beginning on the widening of two important trade corridors in the Lower Mainland of B.C.

Hwys. 10 and 15 in Surrey will be widened to improve the flow of goods and people through the region.

“These upgrades demonstrate the Government of Canada’s commitment to improving the safety, efficiency and sustainability of British Columbia’s transportation system,” said federal Transport Minister, Jean Lapierre. “They will help keep Canadian goods moving through an important trade corridor, as well as relieving congestion for area residents.”

The phase that’s about to get underway will include the application of a pre-load granular material which will solidify the soil. Hwy. 10 will be widened from two to four lanes between 122nd St. and 172nd St. Hwy. 15 meanwhile will be widened from two to four lanes between 32nd Ave. and 88th Ave.

“These highway widening projects are integral to both Surrey’s economy and the economy of the entire region,” B.C. Transportation Minister, Kevin Falcon said. “These highways are primary routes for moving goods through the region, and connect to the other transportation links such as the Tsawwassen ferry terminal and the U.S. border.”

Funding is being shared by the province and the feds, under the Border Infrastructure Fund. Total cost of the two projects is expected to top $140 million, about $60 million of which is being contributed by the federal government. Some traffic delays can be expected during the pre-load phase which will take up to a year to complete.