Surrey Residents Prioritize Transportation and Public Safety Investments

Residents of Surrey have voiced their preferences for future public investments, with a strong emphasis on transportation infrastructure and public safety. Recent public consultations conducted by the City of Surrey revealed that approximately 60% of respondents identified transportation infrastructure as the most critical area requiring increased funding. This focus pertains to the maintenance of roads, sidewalks, paths, and trails, reflecting a widespread desire for improved mobility and safety.

Public safety ranked closely behind, with 55% of participants prioritizing emergency services. This issue has been a longstanding concern for the city and gained heightened attention following the transition to the municipally-controlled Surrey Police Service (SPS). In light of the city’s rapid population growth, there are renewed calls for the municipal government to allocate funds for a significant increase in the number of police officers.

In December 2025, Brenda Locke, the mayor of Surrey, indicated that the requested policing budget for 2026 would require a one-year property tax increase of 18%. This assertion was met with skepticism from opposition city councillors, reflecting ongoing debates over funding strategies for public safety.

Community Amenities and Infrastructure Needs

Quality-of-life amenities also emerged as a significant theme in the consultations. 38% of respondents expressed a desire for enhanced recreation programs and facilities. Specific requests included improved walking paths, playground equipment, wharfs, boardwalks, covered picnic shelters, sports courts, and outdoor sports fields.

In terms of arts and culture, participants showed a keen interest in expanding special events and activities in the community. Additionally, 30% of respondents highlighted the importance of engineering infrastructure, such as utilities and foundational systems like water, sewer, and stormwater management. Although this category ranked lower than others, residents acknowledged that these investments are essential for long-term community resilience and growth.

The city’s public consultation was part of a broader effort to finalize the 2026 operating budget and the 2026-2030 five-year financial plan. While some responsibilities fall outside the city’s jurisdiction, residents also voiced a desire for improved public transit—particularly rapid transit—as well as the development of new purpose-built schools to accommodate increasing enrolment and expanded hospital services.

There is a general concern that Surrey’s rapid population growth is not being matched by a corresponding increase in programs, services, infrastructure, and community facilities. Most respondents indicated a preference for maintaining current city programs and service levels, with just over 60% supporting maintenance and 35% favoring service expansion.

Concerns regarding rising property taxes, user fees, and the overall cost of living were prevalent in open-ended comments throughout the consultation. Many residents proposed funding future services through a combination of moderate property tax increases and user fees, rather than relying solely on property taxes.

As Surrey continues to evolve and grow, the feedback from residents will play a crucial role in shaping the future of public investment and community development in the city.