Surrey Residents Prioritize Transportation and Public Safety in Survey

Recent public consultations conducted by the City of Surrey have revealed that residents overwhelmingly prioritize transportation infrastructure and public safety for future municipal investments. According to the survey results, 60 per cent of respondents identified transportation infrastructure as the most critical area for enhanced funding, underscoring the need for better maintenance of roads, sidewalks, paths, and trails.

Public safety followed closely behind, with 55 per cent of participants emphasizing the importance of emergency services. This concern has been particularly pressing for Surrey, especially following the transition to the municipally controlled Surrey Police Service (SPS). There are renewed calls for the city government to significantly increase the number of police officers to address the challenges posed by Surrey’s rapidly expanding population. In December 2025, Mayor Brenda Locke indicated that the proposed policing budget for 2026 would require an 18 per cent property tax increase. Opposition city councillors contested this assertion at that time.

Quality-of-life amenities also garnered substantial attention in the feedback. 38 per cent of respondents expressed a desire for improved recreational programs and facilities, including better walking paths, playground equipment, wharfs, boardwalks, covered picnic shelters, sports courts, and outdoor sports fields. In terms of arts and culture, residents highlighted the need for more community events and activities.

Engineering infrastructure, such as utilities and foundational systems like water, sewer, and stormwater management, was also recognized as a priority by 30 per cent of participants. Although this category ranked lower compared to others, respondents noted that these essential investments are vital for long-term community resilience and growth.

The City of Surrey conducted this public consultation as part of its effort to finalize the 2026 operating budget and the 2026-2030 five-year financial plan. While some issues fall outside the city’s jurisdiction, residents voiced a strong interest in better public transit—particularly rapid transit—as well as the establishment of new schools to accommodate rising enrollment and enhanced hospital services.

Concerns regarding Surrey’s rapid population growth, driven by ongoing development, have led many residents to feel that the increase in programs, services, infrastructure, and community facilities has not kept pace. The majority of participants indicated a desire to maintain current city programs and service levels, with just over 60 per cent supporting maintenance and 35 per cent advocating for service expansion.

Open-ended comments collected during the consultations revealed significant anxiety about rising property taxes, user fees, and the overall cost of living. Many residents expressed support for funding future services through a mix of moderate property tax increases and user fees rather than relying solely on property taxes.

As Surrey prepares to address these priorities, the feedback from residents will play a crucial role in shaping the city’s approach to future investments and community services.