Over two months ago on Feb. 24, I wrote a rather chilling column titled "TNT on VAW" that exposed the safety problems at both Crescent Beach and White Rock, which allowed vehicles unauthorized access to the waterfront walkways in both of these seaside communities. The second paragraph began with "Now most people would not find this alarming but with vehicles being used as battering rams in pedestrian areas throughout the world, I thought this problem needed to be investigated." It ended with "The recent Mr. Chill ice cream van bombing attempt on the W.R. Bennett Bridge in Kelowna in January should serve as a wake-up call to the need for increased security around pedestrian walkways in this country including here in the Semiahmoo peninsula. This is even more important for those areas that attract large crowds for events, holidays or warm summer days." With the "Vehicle As Weapon" ramming attack at the Lapu Lapu festival in Vancouver this weekend, it unfortunately appears that my fears were both accurate and prophetic.
Before you read on, I'd suggest hitting the Opinions Tab, clicking on the Naked Truth and scrolling down to read this Feb. 24 TNT to get an understanding of the problems along both cities' beaches. Here is the direct link if you want to save time: https://www.whiterocksun.com/index.php?mode=naked_truth I sent an email to the Mayors of both Surrey and White Rock along with their Engineering Departments with this TNT info plus listings of the exact locations and measurements for all of the various access points that I did not expose in my column. A friend of mine in Surrey Hall promised me that the eight access points at Crescent Beach would be dealt with quickly once I had brought it to their attention. Jim Gordon from the CIty of White Rock contacted me to say the bollards were getting new locks and would be secured, with authorized users given clear instructions to keep them locked after access. He went on to say " Due to the numerous access points, particularly near Bay Street, we will focus on preventing access to the Pier."
With Canada's latest VAW attack fresh in mind, I decided it was time to head down to the beaches on Sunday to see what these two cities had done to secure their waterfront walkways. As a resident of Surrey, I am pleased to report that the eight access points where a vehicle could have gained access to the Crescent Beach walkway and Wickson Pier have all been closed off by the City. This was done by placing new boulders, repairing broken curbing and adding more bollards. When I went down to White Rock, it was a completely different story. While most of the bollards are now locked, some were not and could be easily removed. There are still multiple places where vehicles can drive up ramps or sidewalks directly onto the promenade. A stop at Memorial Park showed the three access points I had warned them about were still open. Another ramp I had warned them about had two large planter boxes installed but unfortunately there were four large areas in this one location where a large vehicle could reach the promenade. One heavy concrete no-post was added at the pump house, but since it belongs to Metro Vancouver, I suspect it was their crews who added this blockade.
The head of White Rock Engineering Jim Gordon promised me a month and a half ago that "We plan to install an additional bollard at the southeast end of Memorial Park near the yellow railway emergency gate, as well as a bollard where the Promenade connects to the northeast end of the Pier. These measures aim to prevent vehicle access to the Pier from the Promenade." To date this has not happened and the 2.2 km. long Promenade plus the 470 metre long Pier are still accessible to unauthorized vehicles. In case you were not aware, cars were allowed to drive on the Pier until the 1970s with people drag racing hot rods not being an uncommon sight. Dave Chesney added an Editor's Note to my TNT with a link to a YouTube video showing a Ford Mustang driving on the pier in the middle of the night in July of 2022 (https://youtu.be/JVXgKyM55Co?si=2Ics8Gq8exkPS3WU). Fortunately this stunt driving caused no damage and the Pier looked to be deserted at that time. As far as I know, an RCMP investigation did not identify the vehicle or the driver and no charges were ever filed.
After the VAW attack in Vancouver the City of White Rock should realize that they still have much to do to stop vehicles from gaining access to the Pier and Promenade. They do not have the funds to make the Promenade completely inaccessible to unauthorized vehicles and would need budget and direction from Council to make these changes. That being said, they need to start somewhere and that means ensuring the existing bollards are locked, the two bollards promised for near the pier are installed, heavy planters or no-posts are placed to block ramps and concrete garbage cans get moved to act as barriers and not just for litter. I do realize that with an area of three square miles and only 22,000 residents, White Rock may not be able to afford to make all of these changes overnight. What I'd like to know is why so little has been done to address this issue in the past two months, while Surrey managed to secure all of Crescent Beach? If you are going to invite the public to White Rock to enjoy the beach and spend money for parking, restaurants and shops, you have an obligation to keep them safe. Simply buying some new locks is like putting lipstick on a pig and does little to solve this dangerous problem.
Naturally yours,
Don Pitcairn
I wish to acknowledge we live, work and play on the traditional lands of the Semiahmoo People
LOCAL NEWS
April 29, 2025
Long Shot Pays Off
White Rock city councillor and White Rock/South Surrey Liberal candidate ERNIE KLASSEN turned into the dragon slayer last evening. As the LIBERALS formed government across Canada.
KLASSEN who everyone knew was in tough in the South Surrey/White Rock riding due to it being a long time CONSERVATIVE stronghold.
Klassen collected 31,106 votes compared to to Findlay's 28,602.
NDP candidate Jereun Park was in a distant third with 1,571 votes, and Green Party candidate Christine Kinn
ie collected only 840.
White Rock Council Rewind
Delegations and Presentations
Speakers attended to discuss the following:
A member from the New Westminster & District Labour Council attended regarding the Day of Mourning, which recognizes those who have suffered from workplace injury, accident or disease. Information was also provided on workers’ health and safety issues.
A member from the White Rock Homeowners and Taxpayers Society provided comments on the KPMG financial report for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024.
What We Heard Report Engagement Round #1 – North Bluff Road Corridor Study
Representatives from Urban Systems Limited provided a presentation summarizing public engagement for the North Bluff Corridor Study. View the presentation..
Beach Wheelchairs Access and Storage
Council received a report outlining potential access options for specialized “beach wheelchairs,” designed to help individuals with mobility challenges travel from the Promenade onto the beach. The Self Advocates of Semiahmoo (SAS) generously donated two (2) beach wheelchairs to the City; however, a fully functional program still needs to be established. This would include managing bookings, securing insurance waivers, providing safety instructions, and overseeing general operations.
To support the initiative, Council approved the temporary storage of the beach wheelchairs in the utility rooms at the Memorial Park washroom for a six (6) month period. Additionally, Council directed staff to collaborate with SAS in identifying a suitable organization to oversee and manage the beach wheelchair program moving forward.
Contract Award- Coldicutt Avenue Drainage and Water Upgrades Phase 1
Staff provided a report regarding the contract award for Coldicutt Avenue Drainage and Water Upgrades Phase 1, which includes the installation of approximately 280m of new ductile iron watermain along Coldicutt Avenue west of Lancaster and the installation of approximately 250 m of new PVC drainage main along Chestnut Street north of Blackburn Avenue and along Coldicutt Avenue east of Chestnut Street.
Council approved the award of phase 1 of this project to Sandpiper Contracting LLP in the amount of $982,526 (excluding GST) and also authorized the pre-approved contingency in the amount of $268,934 (approximately 25% of the design and contracting costs) to support the project).
Staff will provide notification to nearby residents of this project, with the aim of beginning construction this summer. Phase 1 of the project is estimated to take three (3) months to complete.
Recommendations from City Committees
Public Art Advisory Committee: Council approved up to $3,500 to be allocated from the Public Art and Placemaking Fund to replace the missing public art signage for The Passenger, located in front of the museum, and for Walking on Sunshine, located in Terry Parr Plaza.
Internal Community Hub Steering Committee
Council received two (2) recommendations:
That the Community Hub Communications Plan be presented at the meeting. View the presentation.
Formally receiving a letter from CUPE Local 718 dated April 16, regarding the deteriorating conditions of the City Hall and Annex Building and the urgent need for a new, accessible civic facility.
Bylaws Receiving Final Reading:
Bylaw 2517 – Amendment Bylaw for the White Rock Zoning Bylaw No. 2506
Bylaw 2517 refines general regulations that apply to zones that contain Small Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) and to further clarify provisions for the development of SSMUH.
The next Regular Council meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 12, 2025, and will be held at the White Rock Community Centre (15154 Russell Ave, White Rock).
The VPD announced on their social media there’s a 24-hour centre and a number for people who are trying to find loved ones:
“UPDATE: A 24-hour assistance centre has been established at the Douglas Park Community Centre, 801 West 22nd Avenue. Vancouver Police officers and Victim Services professionals have been deployed to help anyone who has not been able to contact a loved who was at the Lapu Lapu Festival. If you are not able to attend in person, please call 604-717-3321.“
Work has finally begun on the Helen Fathers/Centre Street Walkway. The walkway is one of many "road ends" the city of White Rock owns dotted along the hillside.
In large part the paths over the years have been poorly maintained and many are overgrown. Fifteen years AGO the late city councillor HELEN FATHERS who passed last term of council, envisioned the beautification and promotion of the Centre street walkway.
Changes in the makeup of council, push back from neighbours along the walkway and city declared lack of finances prevented anything to be done.
This past week work crews have descended on the walk way and work has begun on a minimal beautification plan. Once completed the city of White Rock will create and erect "HELEN FATHERS/CENTRE STREET WALKWAY" signage drawing attention to the north south pathway on the hillside that leads from the waterfront to uptown.
April 27, 2025
City of White Rock flags have been lowered to half-mast in honor of the funeral of His Holiness Pope Francis who passed away on April 21.
April 25, 2025
Involuntary Scoop To Begin
The opening of 10 involuntary care beds at the Surrey Pretrial Services Centre highlights the urgent need for specialized services for offenders struggling with mental health challenges, substance use, and brain injuries. This initiative is a significant first step in addressing the complex issues these individuals face while prioritizing the safety of our community. It's essential to provide targeted and long-term support to those in custody to help them stabilize and navigate their path to recovery.
I understand from the healthcare professionals that this program will involve comprehensive oversight and monitoring. We care deeply about every soul affected by mental health, substance use, and brain injury challenges, as well as safety concerns for the public and community, especially in light of the recent acts of violence we have seen elsewhere.
Yet, this simply isn’t enough. The demand for mental health and addiction services far outweighs available resources, and the complexities of these needs are becoming increasingly pronounced. While this focus on specialized care for those in custody is crucial, we must also acknowledge and address the broader implications for our community, including the stark reality of addiction, mental health and homelessness. With over 1,060 individuals experiencing homelessness in Surrey—a staggering 65% increase since 2020—it's evident that our resources are falling short.
We must take a comprehensive approach to mental health and addiction treatment, ensuring that every member of our community, whether inside or outside the justice system, has access to the care they need. By doing so, we can foster a healthier community, reduce the cycles of crisis, and enhance public safety for all.
Mayor Brenda Locke / City of Surrey
Change of Command Ceremony for Policing in Surrey
On Tuesday (April 22, 2025) a Change of Command ceremony was held to formally recognize Surrey Police Service (SPS) as the new police of jurisdiction for the City of Surrey. The ceremony acknowledged the handover of authority and leadership from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), represented by Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald, to SPS and Chief Constable Norm Lipinski.
The historic ceremony took place at the Cloverdale Agriplex with The Honourable Wendy Cocchia, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, and The Honourable Garry Begg, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General in attendance.
Following the piping in of dignitaries by the SPS Pipes and Drums, attendees witnessed an Indigenous welcome and blessing by Chief Harley Chappell of the Semiahmoo First Nation, the Presentation of the Colour (SPS flag) by the Lieutenant Governor, and Trooping of the Colour by the Chief Constable’s Ceremonial Guard.
Chief Linpinski
The Change of Command Parchment was signed by Deputy Commissioner McDonald, Chief Lipinski, the Solicitor General, and the Chair of the Surrey Police Board. Each then delivered remarks following greetings made by the Lieutenant Governor. At the conclusion of the ceremony, SPS staff gathered to take the first official photo of Surrey Police Service.
“The RCMP proudly served Surrey for decades and we thank them for their tireless service and commitment to public safety,” said Chief Constable Norm Lipinski. “Becoming the police of jurisdiction was not the end goal for Surrey Police Service – it is just the beginning. Being the police agency for a community is an honour and a significant responsibility. We commit to upholding that responsibility every day, on every call, and in every interaction.”
SPS assumed overarching responsibility for policing in the City of Surrey on November 29, 2024, as the new police of jurisdiction. As Surrey’s policing transition continues, the RCMP Surrey Provincial Operations Support Unit is providing policing supports in Surrey until SPS is fully established. The Change of Command ceremony is a symbolic event, rooted in military tradition, that signifies the passing of authority and leadership.
The video recording of the Change of Command ceremony is a one hour ceremony which you can watch here:
April 23, 2025
It's Twins
The live streaming eagle cam located in Ocean Park reveals this year Mother eagle is sitting on not one but two eggs.
The Hancock Wildlife Foundation set up a number of cameras in the Lower mainland a few years back.
Take 5 minutes out of your busy schedule to click on the link and watch mother nature up close and personal.
The final street paving for Johnston Road Phase 2 between Russell Avenue and Thrift Avenue will take place Friday, April 25 to Friday, May 2, weather dependent. Johnston Road will be fully closed from Tuesday, April 29 through to Friday, May 2.
The following traffic impacts are in place:
Friday, April 25: Single lane alternating traffic on Thrift Avenue
Monday, April 28: Minimal impacts along Russell Avenue
Tuesday, April 29 to Friday, May 2
Full closure of Johnston Road
Russell Avenue intersection will also be closed at these times:
April 29, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
April 30, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
May 1, 7 a.m. – 11 a.m.
May 2, intermittently
Sidewalk and access to all businesses along Johnston Road will remain open during construction, and signage will be posted accordingly.
Bus Routes:?
The following bus routes will have detours in place: 321, 345, 350, 351, 354, 362, 363. Visit translink.ca for more information on bus detours.
April 22, 2025
April 14, 2025
Police investigating Crescent Beach hit-and-run
The RCMP Surrey Police Operations Support Unit’s General Investigation Unit (SPOSU GIU) is investigating a hit-and-run collision in Surrey’s Crescent Beach neighbourhood that has left two pedestrians with minor injuries.
At approximately 8:15 pm on April 13, 2025, police received reports of several pedestrians being struck by a vehicle in the 2800 block of McKenzie Avenue. The driver that struck the pedestrians did not remain at the scene. The vehicle was last seen leaving westbound on McKenzie Avenue.
RCMP SPOSU officers attended the scene and found that two people, a teen aged boy and an adult man, had sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Both were transported to hospital for evaluation and treatment.
If you witnessed the collision or have any information, including CCTV or dashcam footage, please call Surrey Police Service at 604-599-0502 and quote file 2025-20007 (SU).
