Happy Tuesday, Surrey!

How bout them BlueJays!

We’re back with your Tuesday edition of The Surrey Digest, bringing you the latest city updates, community news, and upcoming events to keep you connected. We’ve got a quick rundown of what’s shaping life around our city.

In today’s edition:

Grab a warm drink, settle in, and let’s get you caught up on what’s happening around the city.

- Mark

The City of Surrey wants residents to better understand where their tax dollars go as it begins planning for the 2026 budget. The new engagement plan will focus on explaining how city budgets work, showing where money is spent, and collecting feedback on community priorities like transportation, public safety, housing, and parks.

To gather input, the city will host six open houses across Surrey’s town centres, alongside online surveys and multilingual outreach. Officials say only 37% of property taxes stay with the city — the rest goes to provincial agencies like schools, TransLink, and Metro Vancouver.

Why it matters: With rising costs and ongoing growth, Surrey residents have a direct stake in how the city sets its spending priorities and communicates tax decisions.

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Surrey is one step closer to getting a second Costco location. City council has approved the first and second readings for a proposed new store and gas station in South Surrey, located at 1891 and 1947 163 Street. The plan will now head to a public hearing on November 17 at 7 p.m., where residents can share their thoughts before council makes a final decision.

If approved, the development would require changes to Surrey’s Official Community Plan and zoning bylaws. While city staff say the proposal fits with Surrey’s employment goals, not everyone agrees — a petition opposing the project has already gathered nearly 800 signatures.

Why it matters: The project could bring jobs and shopping convenience to South Surrey, but residents will have the final say on whether it moves forward.

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A two-car crash in South Surrey sent one driver to the hospital and damaged an RBC bank on Saturday evening (Oct. 18). The collision happened around 6:30 p.m. in the 3000-block of 152 Street, when a southbound vehicle turning left was hit by a northbound car.

The impact caused one of the vehicles to jump the curb and crash into the front of the bank. Surrey Police say one driver was taken to the hospital with minor injuries. Both drivers are cooperating, and impairment is not believed to be a factor.

Why it matters: The crash highlights ongoing safety concerns at one of South Surrey’s busiest intersections.

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Surrey may soon have its own Entertainment District anchored by a new 10,000-seat arena in City Centre. City staff are asking council to amend the City Centre Plan to make way for the project, which would align with B.C.’s Transit-Oriented Areas framework and help attract major sports, concerts, and community events.

The proposed district, located near Chuck Bailey Recreation Centre at Tom Binnie Park, could include retail and entertainment spaces, offices, a 175-room hotel, and a connected indoor promenade. An economic study found strong potential for a venue that could host a professional sports tenant and large-scale events.

Why it matters: The plan could transform Surrey City Centre into a regional hub for entertainment, business, and tourism — creating new jobs and boosting the local economy.

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A major upgrade is coming to the Chuck Bailey Recreation Centre in Whalley after Surrey city council approved a $59.8 million contract for its design and construction. The expansion will add new spaces and programs to support the fast-growing City Centre and North Surrey communities.

The project will include a second gym, a new fitness centre, a learning kitchen, arts and culture spaces, and enhanced areas for seniors and children. Outside, the plan features a community garden, a large lawn for outdoor activities, and a design that meets net-zero carbon building standards. Construction begins in November, with the facility expected to open by winter 2027.

Why it matters: This expansion will provide more opportunities for recreation, learning, and community connection for residents of all ages — especially as City Centre continues to grow.

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Former NHL players hit the ice in Surrey for the 7th annual CAN Pro-Am Hockey Tournament, raising over $1 million for the Canucks Autism Network (CAN). The two-day event at the North Surrey Sport & Ice Complex brought together ex-pros like Mark Recchi, Mason Raymond, and Brad May with local recreational and corporate teams who fundraised to play alongside them.

One highlight was 10-year-old Carter, who first learned to skate through CAN programs and earned an assist in the All-Star Game — playing with his hockey heroes. Proceeds from the event will fund inclusive sports and recreation programs for individuals on the autism spectrum across B.C.

Why it matters: This charity tournament not only supports youth and families with autism but also celebrates Surrey’s role in fostering community inclusion through sport.

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One of Surrey’s most popular fall traditions is back! Bear Creek Lights will once again transform Bear Creek Park into a glowing wonderland from Nov. 7–21, featuring a new one-kilometre lighted walking path, music, food trucks, and guided night walks.

The event drew nearly 40,000 visitors last year, and free timed-entry tickets open Oct. 21 at noon on surrey.ca/bearcreeklights. Drop-in spots will be limited, especially on weekends. Entry runs every 30 minutes from 4:30–8:30 p.m. (Sun–Thurs) and 4:30–9 p.m. (Fri–Sat).

Why it matters: Bear Creek Lights has become a seasonal favorite for families across Surrey — a chance to celebrate community, nature, and the magic of the holidays outdoors.

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Events marked with ($) require a ticket in advance. Please search them up before going.

Thanks for reading The Surrey Digest! Let’s chat again on Friday!