Happy Friday, Surrey!

It’s been great getting this newsletter up and running! It’s officially been 1 week and I want to thank all of you for your support. I’m looking forward to providing much more value in terms of what you can expect in our City each and every week. If you think I’m missing anything or you have any suggestions, please send them my way at [email protected]!

Here’s what’s inside today’s edition:

— Mark

The City of Surrey has announced the nine community members and one city councillor who will form the advisory board for the new Surrey Sports Hall of Fame. This board will help shape the Hall’s vision, review nominations, and select the first group of inductees to be honoured in 2026.

Mayor Brenda Locke says the Hall of Fame will celebrate athletes, coaches, and community leaders who’ve made a lasting impact through sport — reflecting Surrey’s diverse and resilient spirit. Councillor Gordon Hepner will serve as the city’s representative on the board.

Why it matters: The Hall of Fame will highlight Surrey’s proud sports history, honour local heroes, and inspire the next generation of athletes and volunteers across the city.

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Surrey City Hall is still looking to hire a health care administrator, a new full-time position meant to help improve access to doctors and clinics in the city. The hiring process is underway, with applications open until October 29 and a salary of about $250,000 per year.

The role was approved by council in May as part of Mayor Brenda Locke’s plan to address Surrey’s shortage of family doctors — the city has less than half as many doctors per resident as Vancouver. The administrator will help oversee new community health clinics and partner with SFU’s School of Medicine, which opens next year.

Why it matters: Many Surrey residents struggle to find a family doctor. The city hopes this move will attract more health professionals and ease pressure on local hospitals. Some councillors, however, worry the city is stepping into provincial territory and adding costs to taxpayers.

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A new report from West Coast Environmental Law (WCEL) says the City of Surrey may need to spend $20 million each year until 2030 to protect against coastal flooding and rising sea levels. The report questions whether taxpayers should bear the full cost — or if large oil companies that contributed to climate change should help pay.

WCEL suggests Surrey join a class-action lawsuit against major fossil fuel companies to recover some of these costs. The report also highlights that Surrey’s flood protection strategy includes 46 actions to protect about 20% of the city’s land area that lies within a floodplain.

Mayor Brenda Locke said the city understands the risks and is working with federal and provincial governments on solutions. She noted that flooding is a regional issue that requires cooperation with neighbouring cities like Delta and Langley.

Why it matters: Rising sea levels and climate change could have major impacts on Surrey’s coastal areas — and the debate continues over who should pay to protect local communities.

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Surrey councillor Pardeep Kooner, who grew up and still lives in Newton, says major upgrades are coming to the community — from faster transit to improved local parks.

City council recently approved the next design phase for the King George Boulevard Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project, which will connect Whalley to South Surrey. The new system will bring faster, more reliable bus service and better stations in key areas like Newton Town Centre.

Kooner also says it’s time to focus on smaller, neighbourhood-level improvements. Projects like Tamanawis Park, a redesign of Unwin Park, and new washrooms at T.E. Scott Park are already underway. “It’s about improving the parks and spaces people use every day,” she said.

Why it matters: Newton residents can expect smoother commutes and better local amenities — from upgraded parks to improved community spaces — all aimed at improving daily life close to home.

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The BC Tigers Hurricanes, based out of Newton Athletic Park, will be inducted into the B.C. Soccer Hall of Fame this fall — alongside soccer legend Christine Sinclair.

The 2018 Hurricanes became the first mostly South Asian team to win the Canadian Club Championship, a moment that inspired pride across Surrey and beyond. That season, they pulled off a rare “treble,” winning the Vancouver Metro Soccer League, the B.C. Provincial Cup, and the national Challenge Trophy, where they defeated Ontario’s Caledon SC 7–3.

Why it matters: The Hurricanes’ success represents Surrey’s deep love for soccer and the strength of its South Asian community. Their story continues to inspire young local athletes chasing big dreams.

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A new Foundry Surrey centre is getting ready to open in Whalley — the largest youth health and wellness facility in B.C. Located at 10280 City Parkway (across from Surrey Central SkyTrain), the 18,000-square-foot centre will offer free, same-day support for youth aged 12 to 24 and their families.

Under one roof, visitors can access mental health care, substance-use support, medical services, peer programs, and social services — all in a safe, welcoming space with no referral needed. The site is being operated by Pacific Community Resources Society (PCRS) and includes special Indigenous-focused areas.

A gala fundraiser on Nov. 7 at the Civic Hotel will help raise the final $1.3 million needed to complete the $9.3 million project. The event will also celebrate the centre’s official grand opening.

Why it matters: Surrey’s youth population is growing fast, and many teens face mental health challenges but struggle to find support. Foundry Surrey aims to fill that gap and make it easier for young people to get help close to home.

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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 Tuesday!