British Columbians love hockey. Especially playoffs.
That’s why Surrey RCMP and Delta Police Department are teaming up to enhance police patrols and enforcement that could include road closures during the Vancouver Canucks playoff season.
Historically, unsanctioned gatherings have impacted road users when pedestrian volumes have swelled into traffic lanes at 72 Avenue and 120 Street, on the Surrey-Delta border, a release notes. In order to maintain public safety and road safety, both police jurisdictions will monitor the intersection during the Canucks playoff games.
The intersection of 72 Avenue and 120 Street may be closed to vehicles if necessary, to ensure public/pedestrian safety. While the primary focus of officers will be safety, they will also be present to enforce the Motor Vehicle Act and regulations, liquor and cannabis control laws, and the Criminal Code, the release states.
“This is a special time of the year when fans gather to cheer on the Canucks and we want to ensure fans celebrate safely,” said Surrey RCMP media relations officer Sgt. Tammy Lobb.
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“Additional officers will be in the area maintaining public safety and there will be a focus on targeting drivers who are street racing, stunting and driving dangerously.”
Acting Insp. James Sandberg, public affairs manager of the Delta Police Department, noted police want people to celebrate safely.
“While we encourage our community to celebrate the success of the Vancouver Canucks in a responsible manner, we also want to ensure the celebrations do not negatively impact other roads users,” he said.
“We are asking those who plan to gather at 72 Avenue and 120 Street to be safe, and also respect the travelling public on those roads.”