...He noted that Langley Tourism has been launched, a partnership between the federal and provincial governments, the port, TransLink and the railways will bring rail overpasses to Langley, with design for an overpass at Highway 10 and Mufford Crescent "well underway."
Alberts also commented that a livability accord with the fast-growing cities of Surrey, Coquitlam and Abbotsford will help all of them plan for the future as their combined population grows from 750,000 to 1.4 million in the next 20 years.
He said development of the north side of the airport is underway, which will bring its economic impact to $100 million annually.
He also cited increased development in Gloucester and along the 200 Street corridor, and pointed out that Langley's retail centre, including Willowbrook and Langley City, is the second-largest in the Lower Mainland after downtown Vancouver.
Alberts said the 2010 B.C. Summer Games will take place in Langley and volunteer recruitment will begin next year.
"I hope you see the approach I bring to council," he told the crowd, "I believe in building the community through partnerships, building on our strengths and making decisions with sustainability in mind."
He said his priorities for the next term are "one job for every person in the labour force," increased green space and trails, sustainability, development that is built with public transit in mind, fitness and sports for all and an appreciation of Langley's heritage and sense of community.