The proposal to upgrade the aging U.S. border crossing in Aldergrove, potentially leading to a 24-hour operation, has elicited mixed reactions from businesses in the area. While many welcome the extended operating hours, there are reservations regarding potential challenges and impacts.
Welcoming Extended Hours with Caution
Businesses on the B.C. side, represented by the Aldergrove Business Association and the Greater Langley Chamber Of Commerce, express both optimism and caution regarding the proposed expansion. Jodi Steeves, President of the Aldergrove Business Association, acknowledges concerns about increased traffic but remains confident that longer cross-border shopping hours will not significantly impact local businesses.
Cory Redekop, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Langley Chamber Of Commerce, celebrates the end of overnight shutdowns but raises concerns about the enforcement of cross-border tariffs. Redekop highlights the importance of consistent tariff enforcement to prevent disadvantages for local businesses.
Challenges and Considerations
Steeves voices concerns about potential noise and road congestion resulting from increased commercial truck traffic. She emphasizes the need for infrastructure improvements to address congestion issues, particularly at key intersections like 264th and 56th, near the Hwy. 1 interchange.
Redekop emphasizes the economic benefits of the border expansion for businesses in the Gloucester industrial district, many of which depend on efficient cross-border transportation. However, he stresses the importance of addressing congestion and ensuring fair tariff enforcement to support local businesses.
Enforcing Fair Tariffs and Ensuring Equity
Both Steeves and Redekop call for more diligent enforcement of tariffs on returning Canadian shoppers to ensure fairness and equity for businesses on both sides of the border. They advocate for consistent collection of taxes and duties to prevent disadvantages for Aldergrove businesses.
Looking Ahead
The proposed overhaul of the Aldergrove-Lynden border crossing, estimated to cost $90 to $100 million U.S., aims to modernize and expand operations to accommodate increased demand. Plans include expanding and separating personal vehicle and commercial screening operations, potentially allowing for 24-hour service.
Construction is expected to commence in September 2026, with substantial completion by November 2028, according to the U.S. General Services Administration. The upgrade aims to address operational limitations and reduce wait times at other commercial ports in Western Washington.
Plans to upgrade the U.S. side of the Sumas crossing in Abbotsford, for $135 million to $155 million U.S., have also been announced.
In Conclusion
The move to expand the Aldergrove border crossing to 24-hour operations reflects efforts to enhance cross-border transportation and support economic growth. While businesses welcome the extended hours, concerns about traffic congestion and tariff enforcement underscore the need for careful planning and collaboration to ensure equitable outcomes for all stakeholders.