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Residents living near the park were notified of the city’s intention to go ahead with the road in May. Public consultation has been held, and in August the city launched an “alternative approval process” to remove a reservation bylaw on a portion of the park, which is necessary to begin construction.

Some residents have formed a group called Save Surrey Parks and tried to block the bylaw change with a petition, but did not collect enough signatures. They have also held rallies and attended council and committee meetings to protest the road.

Work is expected to begin in January.

On Monday, council authorized staff to proceed with the implementation of the project, including making land purchases to increase the park size and make improvements. The city clerk will also bring forward the final reading of a bylaw to remove the reservation.

Coun. Judy Villeneuve said it was a challenging decision, and applauded the public for getting involved. She said she made her choice to support the road project based on environmental and planning principles.

“I think council has struggled to make a responsible decision,” she said. “I hope you respect my decision.”

Coun. Mary Martin said her conscience told her it was the right decision to support the proposal.

“It meets the needs of the environment, the livability, the transportation and the beautification that this city strives for,” Martin said.

Coun. Vera LeFranc lives in the neighbourhood and the road will be near her house, but she supports its construction. She said the city is growing and east-west connections are difficult.

“I was not elected to kick hard decisions down the road,” she said.

Photo by Submitted / City of Surrey

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