Busy beach access route to close next month in South Surrey

1001 Steps in South Surrey will be getting a new look, and it’s coming soon.

The steps, which have served as a popular beach access route from Ocean Park’s 15A avenue off 126A street for more than four decades (minus the lengthy pandemic closure) are at the end of their life cycle.

According to the City of Surrey, those who have relied on these steps as a gateway to a portion of beautiful Crescent Beach in the past will be forced to take the long route as early as next month.

Surrey City Council approved the Ocean Park replacement to the tune of about $700,000, with funding from the 2024 Parks, Recreation & Culture Capital Budget, at a council meeting on Monday night.

“The 1001 Steps are an integral part of the South Surrey landscape, serving as a crucial recreational feature for residents and visitors alike. The pathway and steps offer amazing ocean views, with opportunities for viewing harbour seals and other wildlife,” a statement from the City reads.

Work is slated to begin in the coming weeks, and the project is expected to be completed by the end of March 2025.

The renovation location in Surrey.

While the name may imply a total of 1,001 steps, there aren’t actually that many, and Surrey has not said if they will add more to make the number match the name. Very few details of the look of the new steps have been revealed.

For those who might confuse it with another access point, 1001 goes under the train tracks, not over and is just a few minutes walk from Ocean Park Safeway.

Bob Florko

Bob Florko

In the meeting, Mayor Brenda Locke mentioned that while the steps would be replaced, they would also be examining traffic impacts for the future as she had heard complaints that it was very busy.

“This renovation will not only enhance the safety and accessibility of the 1001 Steps but will also preserve this beloved community landmark for future generations to enjoy,” Locke added in a release. “We are committed to investing in our parks and recreation infrastructure to improve the quality of life for residents in Surrey, with $1.7 billion in approved capital projects over five years.”

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