Government must hold on to rail rights as Valley completes transit study

SURREY - The Campbell government must retain rail rights that hold potential for development of transit alternative in the Fraser Valley, New Democrats said today.

"The railway in the Fraser Valley could play a major part in alleviating traffic congestion  in the region" said New Democrat transportation critic Harry Bains . "The rights expire in August, and only the Campbell government could get in the way of their renewal."Harry Bains

Bains said B.C. Hydro holds rights to run rail along the Pratt-Livingston Corridor through Langley and Cloverdale on track the government-owned utility sold to CP Rail over 20 years ago.

"A strategic review of transportation strategies is currently underway in the Fraser Valley. This piece of track could prove to be a factor in alleviating traffic congestion well into the future," said Bains. "B.C. Hydro has told CP Rail they intend to renew the agreement.

"If the Campbell government were to intervene and let the rights go, it would demonstrate a serious lack of vision and short-sightedness."

Bains noted that CP Rail, a major donor to the B.C. Liberal Party, would benefit from the release of BC Hydro's rights. CP Rail donated $40,470 to the B.C. Liberals between 2005 and 2008.

"Carole James and the New Democrats will maintain pressure on the Campbell government to keep in mind the best interests of the region," said Bains.

Harry Bains

Surrey-Newton

Harry Bains was elected as the MLA for Surrey Newton on May 17, 2005, and then re-elected on May 12, 2009.