April 12th, 2018 marked the third Newton Talks of the year and our guest speaker was Melanie Gaboriault with the Surrey LRT Project. As usual the room was sold out as residents and businesses were eager to hear about how Light Rapid Transit was forever going to change their community.

 

“TransLink is leading the planning process for Surrey-Newton-Guildford LRT in partnership with the City of Surrey, and with funding from the Federal and Provincial Governments. Street-oriented LRT will transform Surrey into connected, complete and livable communities, making the city and the region more vibrant, accessible, competitive and sustainable. LRT to Surrey will decrease commute times, help keep the region connected, and revitalize urban neighbourhoods.” – Surrey Light Rail

 

There has been an abundance of meetings, news articles, & social media rants about the Surrey LRT project. I have been a longtime supporter of the massive investment that comes with a project of this size. The opportunity for the people living in the area and the surrounding business environment is tremendous.

 

I do not support Sky Train! Hard to say out loud and open yourself to criticism. One of my favorite taglines is we are building community at the Newton Business Improvement Association. This project is going to be the catalyst for the entire neighborhood. A gathering point for the community to get connected to the rest of the city. In addition, we have an opportunity to provide more value and depth in the Town Center. LRT cannot be a stand-alone project. It takes more than a train to build a community! To revitalize the area, we must also include complimentary resources & projects.

 

Create a thriving mix use community!

  • Cultural Entertainment District in Newton
  • Higher Density Zoning – Get people living in the Town Center
  • Spectator Arena & Convention Space
  • Hotel Development
  • Central Plaza & Park
  • More small community events
  • Host a Major Event attracting 10,000 people
  • Beautification Projects (Murals, Lights, Banners, Flowers)
  • More restaurants, coffee shops and unique independent shops

 

Communities are made up of the people that are living and working in the area. LRT is another tool that will help us transform Newton into a community that people are excited to live, work and thrive in.

 

Cheers,

 

 

 

 

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