Premier David Eby emphasizes the importance of federal investment in provincial transportation infrastructure to support cross-Canada trade and economic growth. Eby recently met with the federal government to discuss the urgent need for improvements in key trade routes, such as Highway 1 and the Massey Tunnel in British Columbia.
He highlighted the critical role of infrastructure in facilitating trade and preventing long-term disruptions, especially following recent flooding that affected Highway 1. Eby expressed concerns that neglecting infrastructure maintenance could lead to significant trade disruptions and companies diverting their operations away from British Columbia.
Abbotsford Mayor Ross Siemens echoed the call for prioritizing flood-mitigation efforts to safeguard the region’s economy and infrastructure. The recent flooding incidents underscore the importance of proactive measures to protect vital transportation routes and prevent future disruptions.
Eby emphasized the multifaceted importance of Highway 1, serving as not just a road but also a crucial link for trade and various infrastructure networks in the region. He stressed the need for federal collaboration to address infrastructure vulnerabilities and mitigate the risks posed by natural disasters.
The upcoming meeting between provincial leaders and Prime Minister Mark Carney will address the pressing need for transportation infrastructure investment to enhance trade efficiency and support economic growth. Eby urged the federal government to prioritize addressing infrastructure bottlenecks and enhancing transportation networks to boost trade capabilities.