SURREY, B.C. — Work has begun to complete the widening of the Hwy. 15 corridor, from Surrey, B.C. to the U.S. border, in an effort to ease congestion and travel time.

Having a continuous four-lane highway from the Trans-Canada Highway to the Pacific Highway border crossing is expected to improve access for truckers to and from the U.S.

“This $15.4-million project is the latest component of the joint federal-provincial program to improve the movement of goods and people to and from the Lower Mainland’s border crossings,” said Transport Minister Kevin Falcon. “We are committed to working with the federal government to open up our transportation gateways and improve the movement of goods and people.”

The Government of Canada and the Government of British Columbia are cost-sharing this latest project, with most of the work being funded through the Border Infrastructure Fund. Supplemental funding is provided through the federal-provincial Strategic Highway Infrastructure Program border crossing component.

“Improved links will also reduce freight costs, and enhance the economies of Canada, British Columbia and the Greater Vancouver region,” said Lawrence Cannon, federal Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities.

This project will see the widening of Hwy. 15 in Surrey from 32nd Avenue to the Roger Pierlet Overhead, and from 68A Avenue to 92nd Avenue. Work includes grade construction, soil preparation, asphalt removal, paving and electrical installations.