Wednesday, September 16, 2026
The Province of British Columbia is honouring the legacy of former premier Dave Barrett by naming the Surrey Langley SkyTrain extension the Dave Barrett Extension, recognizing his lasting contributions to public service and role in shaping British Columbia.
“Dave Barrett spent his life fighting for ordinary people. He believed everyone deserved a fair chance to get ahead and access the services that help working families thrive,” said Premier David Eby. “More than 50 years later, British Columbians still benefit from the vision Dave championed and his belief that government can be a force for good in people’s lives. This transit line will help people get where they need to go for generations, making it a fitting tribute to a leader whose legacy continues to be felt across our province.”
The Dave Barrett Extension will extend the SkyTrain rapid transit system 16 kilometres from King George Station in Surrey to Langley City Centre, adding eight new stations.
“In the mid-1970s, Dave Barrett’s government helped expand and connect transit services in communities such as Surrey, Delta, White Rock and Langley. Fifty years later, the Dave Barrett Extension carries that legacy forward by bringing fast, reliable rapid transit for the next generation living south of the Fraser,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Transportation and Transit.
Dave Barrett served as British Columbia’s 26th premier from 1972 until 1975 and is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the province’s modern history. His government introduced landmark reforms and established enduring public institutions, including the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia, the Agricultural Land Reserve and B.C.’s PharmaCare program. His government also conceived, planned and approved the SeaBus service, a lasting part of Metro Vancouver’s transit network that continues to connect communities across Burrard Inlet.
Construction is progressing rapidly along the Fraser Highway corridor, with guideway installation now more than 60 per cent complete.
Service on the Dave Barrett Extension is expected to begin in 2029.
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