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Welcome to Fleetwood
Wednesday, June 29th, 2005 by GetawayBC.com
One of Surrey’s oldest districts has seen the future, and it has four lanes.
Fleetwood, named for an early pioneer who died in action during the First World War, is reaping the benefits of the Fraser Highway expansion. The route is a major factor in the lives of the nearly 50,000 people who populate Fleetwood, whose boundaries extend from 96 Avenue to 72 Avenue, and between 176 Street and 144 Street.
The latest phase of roadwork, from 160 Street to 168 Street, will help the development of housing as well as the town centre, said Rick Hart, president of the Fleetwood Community Association.
“Such a project just improves the access to Fleetwood and the economic viability of the business sector. It will add to the vitality of the community.”
The Fleetwood Community Association has been looking after the better interests of the area since it was first established in 1923 to deal with community business. A strong advocate for the pioneering town centre, the FCA is a volunteer-based, non-profit society comprised of local business owners and residents.
During its long history, the association has been a keen advocate for the area, lending guidance to emerging businesses sectors and encouraging such projects as the Fleetwood Youth Park. The facility, complete with a games court and concrete skate park, is located on the south side of the Surrey Sports & Leisure Complex. The association has also worked in conjunction with the City of Surrey to develop Fleetwood Park, Fleetwood Community Centre, the Fleetwood/Guildford Community Station and guidelines for the Fleetwood Town Centre.
The Sports & Leisure Complex, Surrey’s largest aquatic facility, was conceived under the critical eye of the FCA and now is a hub of activity for everyone from children to seniors. It boasts a 52-metre competition pool, as well as a leisure pool, swirl pool, water slide, wet steam room and dry sauna. For those who prefer to work out on dry land, there is also a 10,000-sq.-ft. fitness centre featuring the latest in cardio and weight equipment.
Another key involvement has been with the Fleetwood Community Plan, which was passed in 1999, incorporating the overall City of Surrey vision.
Fleetwood’s appeal has attracted several significant, high-profile businesses, including Terasen, whose expansion into the area including establishing its regional office, as well as Mercedes Benz.
Fleetwood Highlights:
Surrey Sports & Leisure Complex
16555 Fraser Highway
604-501-5950
The aquatic area features an Olympic-size pool and all the fun you can have in a bathing suit. The arena area, which opened in the fall of 1999, is a state-of-the-art facility containing two NHL-size rinks, and nine dressing rooms, including one that is female-only. Combined seating for 360 spectators is available. The 380-sq.-ft meeting room can accommodate 30 people theatre-style or 12 for boardroom seating.
Fleetwood Recreation Centre
15996 84 Avenue
604-501-5030
Offers programs for all ages, from pre-schoolers to seniors. A workout area features fitness classes and a weight room.
Fleetwood off-leash dog park
Fleetwood was the first Surrey community to receive a dedicated off-leash park. Initiated by Surrey Parks, Recreation and Culture, the site is a seven-hectare area located at 84 Avenue near 154 Street. It includes 25 parking stalls, open grass areas and a trail system.
The Fleetwood Community Association
The association’s Web site (www.fleetwood.surrey.bc.ca) is a wealth of information about the area. Its menu links to community groups, sporting associations, churches and much more. An active event calendar is also posted, and there is no charge for organizations and non-profit associations to communicate their special events on-line.