Surrey begins construction on a new Highway 99 overpass near a future Costco, easing traffic, improving connectivity, and supporting major growth by 2027.
A Long-Awaited Connection Finally Takes Shape
After years of planning, South Surrey is about to see a major transportation upgrade take form. Construction will soon begin on a brand-new 20 Avenue overpass over Highway 99, a project designed to unlock smoother travel and prepare the area for rapid growth, including a massive new Costco Wholesale store nearby.
City council has approved a $28.75 million construction contract, clearing the way for crews to mobilize within weeks. As a result, what was once a fragmented roadway will soon become a vital east-west link.
Why the 20 Avenue Overpass Matters
Right now, 20 Avenue simply stops at Highway 99, forcing drivers onto longer and often congested routes. Once completed, the new overpass will change that dynamic entirely.
The structure will carry four vehicle lanes, two in each direction, along with a multi-use pathway for pedestrians and cyclists. Although it will not include on- or off-ramps to Highway 99, it will still significantly reduce pressure on nearby crossings by offering a new alternative route.
In addition, traffic flow across South Surrey is expected to improve almost immediately after opening.
Roads Around the Overpass Get a Major Upgrade
The overpass is only part of the story. To ensure everything works seamlessly, surrounding roads will also be modernized.
20 Avenue will be widened from two lanes to four lanes between 160 Street and 164 Street. At the same time, new traffic signals, turning lanes, and streetlights will be installed at key intersections, including King George Boulevard and 160 Street. A new water main crossing will also be built as part of the project.
Meanwhile, Croydon Drive will close temporarily, although a realigned route will be constructed to maintain local access once land requirements are finalized.
Timeline and Funding at a Glance
Construction is scheduled to begin in February 2026 and wrap up by December 2027. Except for the water main work, most of the project is being paid for through development fees collected from builders, not general taxpayers.
This approach allows critical infrastructure to move forward while keeping pace with growth.
Costco’s Arrival Raises the Stakes
Just southeast of the overpass site, a 33-acre vacant property is set to transform into Metro Vancouver’s largest Costco. The 165,000-square-foot store will include a gas station, nearly 1,000 parking stalls, and more than 400 new jobs.
Costco plans to start construction in early 2026, aiming to open in late 2027, perfectly timed with the completion of the overpass.
According to company representatives, the location is strategic. Thousands of South Surrey residents currently drive to Bellingham to shop at Costco, sending an estimated $22 million a year across the border. A local store could keep much of that spending at home.
Costco Commits to Fixing Traffic Concerns
Traffic impact was a top concern raised by residents during public hearings. In response, Costco committed to funding extensive road upgrades around the site.
These improvements include widening 164 Street into a four-lane collector road, expanding sections of 20 Avenue, installing new traffic signals, and building a two-lane roundabout at the main store entrance. Additional upgrades will also be made to 18 Avenue and the intersection of 20 Avenue and 168 Street.
Together, these privately funded projects will align with the City’s overpass work, ensuring the road network can handle increased traffic through at least 2036.
Bigger Transportation Plans on the Horizon
City planners say this is just the beginning. South Surrey’s population is projected to grow by more than 60 percent over the next 30 years, making further upgrades unavoidable.
Future plans include widening 16 Avenue, restoring a direct connection between 164 Street and the Highway 99 interchange, and exploring new ramps at the 24th Avenue interchange. More improvements along 20 Avenue are also being studied.
As these plans unfold, the new overpass will serve as a foundation for a much larger transformation.
The Bottom Line
With construction about to begin, South Surrey is entering a new chapter. The 20 Avenue overpass, paired with Costco’s arrival and major road upgrades, signals a shift toward better connectivity, smarter planning, and long-term growth. For drivers, cyclists, and businesses alike, the payoff will soon be visible, and felt, on the road.
Stay updated instantly — follow us on Instagram | Facebook | X