Langley is a municipality in the Metro Vancouver Regional District in British Columbia, Canada. It is approximately 25 miles (40 km) east-southeast of Vancouver and near the U.S. border. Langley is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and natural beauty.

 

In 1827, the Hudson's Bay Company established Fort Langley, a historic trading post named after Thomas Langley, a company director. 

 

The fort played a significant role in securing British influence in the coastal region and served as the provisional capital of the Crown Colony of British Columbia in 1858. 

 

Today, the site is part of the Fort Langley National Historic Site, which includes restored structures from the original fort.

 

The City of Langley is a 10-square-kilometer urban center with a population of approximately 29,000. It offers a range of amenities, including shopping, dining, education, and entertainment facilities. 

 

Kwantlen Polytechnic University and Trinity Western University, both of which have campuses in Langley, are also located in the city. 

 

The community is also known for its numerous parks, including Campbell Valley Regional Park and Derby Reach Regional Park, which offer recreational opportunities and scenic views.

 

Langley has a well-developed education system. School District 35 Langley operates public schools, including six elementary schools and one middle school, H. D. Stafford Middle School. 

 

Several high schools are in the surrounding area, including Brookswood Secondary School, Langley Secondary School, and Walnut Grove Secondary School. 

 

The Conseil scolaire francophone de la Colombie-Britannique also operates the école des Voyageurs primary school for French-speaking students.

 

Langley has a range of community facilities, including the Timms Community Centre, Al Anderson Memorial Swimming Pool, Douglas Recreation Centre, and Langley Fire Rescue Hall. 

 

The city is also home to the Langley City FVRL Library and the Cascades Casino, Coast Hotel & Convention Centre. Numerous parks and recreational areas throughout the city provide opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation.

 

Langley has been home to several notable individuals, including magician Wes Barker, NHL players Dennis Cholowski and Danton Heinen, actress Amanda Crew, and author J. Jill Robinson. The city has also been a refuge for figures such as Jose Figueroa.

 

Langley is home to various tourist attractions, including the Canadian Museum of Flight, the Fort Langley National Historic Site, and the Greater Vancouver Zoo. 

 

The city also has several farms and parks, such as Aldor Acres Farm, Campbell Valley Regional Park, and Derby Reach Regional Park. 

 

Additionally, Langley hosts the Langley Events Centre, home to the Vancouver Giants hockey team, and the Twilight Drive-In, Metro Vancouver's only drive-in movie theatre.

 

The City of Langley is divided into six neighbourhoods based on elementary school catchment areas: Nicomekl, Douglas, Simonds, Blacklock, Alice Brown, and Uplands. 

 

These neighbourhoods offer a range of residential and commercial properties, as well as community facilities and services.

 

Langley is a vibrant and diverse community that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Its proximity to Vancouver and the U.S. border makes it an attractive location for residents and visitors alike.

 

History of Langley, British Columbia, Canada

Langley, British Columbia, Canada, has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. Here is a detailed overview of its history:

 

Early History

• 1827: The Hudson's Bay Company (HBC) built Fort Langley, a fur trading post on the banks of the Fraser River. The fort was strategically located to compete with American fur traders for the region's rich pelts.
• 1839: The first fort was rebuilt farther upstream due to flooding concerns.

 

Gold Rush and Colony Establishment

• 1858: Gold was discovered in the Fraser River, and Fort Langley became a supply station for miners heading up the river. This led to the establishment of the Colony of British Columbia, with James Douglas as the first governor.
• 1859: The capital was moved from Fort Langley to New Westminster due to concerns about defensibility from an American invasion.

 

Post-Gold Rush

• 1870: Paul Murray settled in what is now Murrayville and the area became known as "Murray's Corner".
• 1873: The Township of Langley was incorporated, with James W. Mackie as its first elected warden.

 

Late 19th and Early 20th Centuries

• 1910: The British Columbia Electric Railway was built through the community, connecting Langley to its surroundings.
• 1920s: Fraser Highway was constructed, further improving transportation links.
• 1937: The Pattullo Bridge was completed, enhancing connectivity to
•  Vancouver.

 

Secession and Growth

• 1954: A referendum on secession w0as held, and Langley Prairie officially seceded from the Township of Langley to become the City of Langley in 1955.
• 1957: Langley Township adopted the grid system for its road network.
• 1967: Langley Township became part of Metro Vancouver, experiencing rapid growth and suburbanization.

 

Modern Era

• Post-World War II: Langley's growth accelerated, driven by the economic boom and the construction of the Trans-Canada Highway. Suburban communities like Walnut Grove emerged, popular with commuters.

 

Cultural and Economic Significance

• Fort Langley National Historic Site: The site is part of Canada's national heritage, recognizing its role in the country's history, particularly during the gold rush and the establishment of the Colony of British Columbia.
• Agriculture and Industry: Langley is known for its thriving agricultural sector, including wineries, cedar-products firms, machine shops, and meat packers. It is also home to numerous manufacturing and warehousing operations.
• Education: The area has several post-secondary institutions, including Trinity Western University and Kwantlen University College.

 

Langley's history reflects its strategic location, role in the fur trade and gold rush, and growth into a thriving agricultural and industrial center.

 

Geography of Langley, British Columbia, Canada

Langley, British Columbia, Canada, is a municipality in the Metro Vancouver Regional District. It is approximately 25 miles (40 km) east-southeast of Vancouver and near the U.S. border. Langley is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and natural beauty.

 

Geography

• Location: Langley is located in the eastern part of Metro Vancouver, directly east of Surrey and adjacent to the Cloverdale area.
• Boundaries: The City of Langley is bordered by the Township of Langley to the north, east, and south, with the Nicomekl River flowing through the middle of the city.
• Road Network: Langley City follows a block system with streets running north-south and avenues running east-west. However, natural and artificial barriers, such as the Nicomekl River and railroad tracks, have affected the city's development, leading to a non-tidy grid.
• Neighbourhoods: The City of Langley has six neighbourhoods based on elementary school catchment areas: Nicomekl, Douglas, Simonds, Blacklock, Alice Brown, and Uplands.
• Elevation: The city has an elevation of 15 meters (49 feet) above sea level.

 

Township of Langley

• Location: The Township of Langley is immediately east of the City of Surrey and extends south from the Fraser River to the Canada–United States border.
• Boundaries: The township is bordered by the City of Langley to the west and Abbotsford to the north.
• Communities: The township includes several communities, including Aldergrove, Brookswood, Fernridge, Fort Langley, Milner, Murrayville, Willoughby, and Walnut Grove.

 

United States Border

• Location: Langley is situated directly north of and along the United States border, with Washington state to the south.
• Border Crossings: Langley contains one of the five Lower Mainland border crossings in the community of Aldergrove, which offers faster crossings for those who opted into the NEXUS program.

 

Langley's geography is characterized by its unique blend of urban and rural areas, rich history and cultural attractions.

 

Demographics of Langley, British Columbia, Canada

The demographics of Langley, British Columbia, Canada are as follows:

 

City of Langley

• Population: 28,963 (2021 Census)
• Population Density: 2,845.2/km² (7,369/sq mi)
• Religious Groups:
  • Irreligion: 49.2%
  • Christianity: 40.8%
  • Sikhism: 3.7%
  • Islam: 2.9%
  • Buddhism: 1.3%
  • Hinduism: 1.2%
  • Judaism: 0.1%
  • Other: 0.8%

 

Township of Langley

• Population: 132,603 (2021 Census)
• Population Density: 431.6/km² (1,117.9/sq mi)
• Religious Groups:
  • Irreligion: 49.3%
  • Christianity: 42.2%
  • Sikhism: 3.9%
  • Islam: 1.4%
  • Buddhism: 1.3%
  • Hinduism: 0.9%
  • Judaism: 0.2%
  • Indigenous spirituality: <0.1%
  • Other: 0.1%

 

These demographics reflect the diverse religious and cultural backgrounds of the residents in both the City of Langley and the Township of Langley.

 

Economy of Langley, British Columbia, Canada

The economy of Langley, British Columbia, Canada, is diverse and thriving. Here are some key aspects:

 

Major Industries

• Agriculture: Langley is known for its agricultural sector, with a significant portion of the township dedicated to farming. The main agricultural products include poultry and swine production, dairying, beef farming, mushroom cultivation, and berry growing.
• Manufacturing and Warehousing: The township has several industrial estates that support manufacturing and warehousing operations, including wineries, cedar-products firms, machine shops, plastic and concrete products, and meat packers.
• Export-Oriented Growing: Langley is also home to export-oriented growing sectors specializing in greenhouse products.
• Equine Industry: Langley is referred to as the "horse capital" of British Columbia due to its large equestrian facility, Thunderbird Show Park, and numerous smaller ones, as well as breeding and training facilities.

 

Economic Development

• Infrastructure: Improved access and land suited for subdivision have led to a residential construction boom. Large industrial estates have drawn numerous manufacturing and warehousing operations, making Langley a regional commercial and industrial centre.
• Tourism: Langley's rich history and cultural attractions, such as the Fort Langley National Historic Site and the Canadian Museum of Flight, contribute to its tourism industry.

 

Education and Research

• Post-Secondary Institutions: Langley is home to Kwantlen Polytechnic University and Trinity Western University, providing various educational opportunities.

 

Cultural and Recreational Activities

• Museums: Langley has several museums focusing on native history, agriculture, aviation, and communication.
• Parks and Outdoor Activities: The township contains numerous parks, including Campbell Valley Regional Park, which features historic sites and recreational facilities.
• Drive-in Movie Theatre: Langley is home to the Twilight Drive-in, a drive-in movie theatre.

 

Langley's economy is driven by a mix of agricultural, manufacturing, and service sectors, with a strong focus on innovation and tourism.

 

Education in Langley, British Columbia, Canada

Langley, British Columbia, Canada, has a diverse range of educational institutions, including public and private schools, offering various programs and courses. Here are some key points about education in Langley:

 

Public Schools

• Langley Education Centre (LEC): LEC is a public high school that offers structured, blended, and online courses for teens and adults to earn their BC Secondary School Graduation. It has a state-of-the-art facility and provides flexible learning options.
• School District 35 Langley: The district operates several public schools, including elementary, middle, and secondary schools, offering a range of programs and courses.

 

Private Schools

• Langley Christian School: A K-12 private school offering a Christian-based education.
• Murrayville Academy: A K-7 private school focusing on character development and academic excellence.
• St. Catherine's School: A K-12 private school focusing on academic achievement and character development.
• Other Private Schools: There are several other private schools in Langley, including Aldergrove Christian Academy, COMPASS Community Learning Centres, Credo Christian Schools, Dogwood School, Fraser Valley Adventist Academy, Khalsa School of the Fraser Valley, and Langley Fine Arts School.

 

Education Options

• Structured Courses: LEC offers semester classes, which involve attending classes twice a week for one semester, and blended classes, which involve attending classes once a week with online assignments.
• Online Directed Learning: LEC offers courses that can be completed at the student's own pace within a maximum of two consecutive semesters.
• Childcare: LEC provides childcare services for students with babies and children under six.

 

Educational Institutions

• Kwantlen Polytechnic University: A public university offering various post-secondary programs.
• Trinity Western University: A private Christian university offering various post-secondary programs.

 

Langley offers a range of educational options, from public and private schools to online and post-secondary institutions, catering to different learning styles and needs.

 

Transport System in Langley, British Columbia, Canada

Langley, British Columbia, Canada, has a comprehensive public transportation system that includes buses and a planned SkyTrain extension. Here are the key points about the transport system in Langley:

 

Langley Centre Bus Exchange

• Location: The Langley Centre bus exchange is located at Glover Road and Logan Avenue in downtown Langley City.
• Operated by TransLink, with bus routes and operators provided by Coast Mountain Bus Company.
• Bus Routes: The exchange serves 15 bus routes, including routes to Surrey, Maple Ridge, and White Rock. It also provides connections to SkyTrain and the West Coast Express rail services for travel towards Vancouver.
• Fare Zone: The Langley Centre is in Fare Zone 3.

 

Surrey Langley SkyTrain Project

• Project Overview: The Surrey-Langley SkyTrain project is an extension of the Expo Line from King George SkyTrain Station in Surrey to 203 Street in Langley City, with eight stations and three transit exchanges.
• Timeline: The project was approved in 2022, with an estimated completion date of late 2028.
• Cost: The total cost of the project, including capital costs and active transportation investments, is estimated to be $4.01 billion.

 

Public Transportation Options

• Langley Minibus: Offers transportation services within Langley City and to surrounding areas.
• J Dhhot Transportation: Provides transportation services for individuals and groups.
• Hertz Rent-A-Car: Offers car rentals for those who prefer to drive.

 

Future Developments

• Langley City Centre SkyTrain Station: When the Surrey Langley SkyTrain project is completed, the new SkyTrain station at 203 Street and Fraser Highway will replace the Langley Centre bus exchange.
• Transit Exchanges: The project includes three transit exchanges at Bakerview-166 Street, Willowbrook, and Langley City Centre stations, which will enhance connectivity and accessibility.

 

Langley's public transportation system is designed to provide efficient and convenient travel options for residents and visitors alike, and the planned SkyTrain extension will further enhance connectivity to the region.

 

Living in Langley, British Columbia, Canada

Langley, British Columbia, Canada, is a district municipality about 40 km east of Vancouver. It is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. Here are some key points about living in Langley:

 

History and Culture

• Fort Langley: Known as the "Birthplace of British Columbia," Fort Langley has a rich history dating back to 1827 when the Hudson's Bay Company built a trading post there. Today, it is a popular tourist destination with many historical sites and events.
• Agriculture: Langley is known for its agricultural sector, with a significant portion of the township dedicated to farming. The main agricultural products include poultry and swine production, dairying, beef farming, mushroom cultivation, and berry growing.

 

Education

• School District 35 Langley: The district operates several public schools, including elementary, middle, and secondary schools, offering a range of programs and courses.
• Post-secondary education: Langley is home to Kwantlen Polytechnic University and Trinity Western University, providing various educational opportunities.

 

Transportation

• Langley Centre Bus Exchange: The Langley Centre bus exchange is located in downtown Langley City and serves 15 bus routes, providing connections to Surrey, Maple Ridge, and White Rock.
• SkyTrain Extension: The Surrey-Langley SkyTrain project extends the Expo Line from King George SkyTrain Station in Surrey to 203 Street in Langley City, with eight stations and three transit exchanges.

 

Community and Recreation

• Parks and Outdoor Activities: Langley contains numerous parks, including Campbell Valley Regional Park, which features historic sites and recreational facilities.
• Drive-in Movie Theatre: Langley is home to the Twilight Drive-in, a drive-in movie theatre.
• Horse Farms: Langley is known for its horse farms, and the local equine industry is valued at over $60 million annually.

 

Economy

• Manufacturing and Warehousing: Langley has several industrial estates that support manufacturing and warehousing operations, including wineries, cedar-products firms, machine shops, plastic and concrete products, and meat packers.
• Export-Oriented Growing: Langley is home to export-oriented growing sectors specializing in greenhouse products.

 

Future Developments

• Langley City Centre SkyTrain Station: When the Surrey-Langley SkyTrain project is completed, the new SkyTrain station at 203 Street and Fraser Highway will replace the Langley Centre bus exchange.
• Transit Exchanges: The project includes three transit exchanges at Bakerview-166 Street, Willowbrook, and Langley City Centre stations, which will enhance connectivity and accessibility.

 

Langley offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an attractive place to live and visit.

 

Healthcare in Langley, British Columbia, Canada

Langley, British Columbia, Canada, offers various healthcare services and programs. Here are some key points about healthcare in Langley:

 

Hospital and Emergency Care

• Langley Memorial Hospital: Provides emergency care and other medical services.
• Emergency Department: Located at Langley Memorial Hospital, the emergency department is available 24/7 for medical emergencies.

 

Home and Community Care

• Home Health Service Line: This line offers home health services, including nursing, therapy, and home support. New clients can contact the Line at 1-855-412-2121.
• Home Health Office: Located at 101-20651 56th Avenue, Langley, BC V3A 3Y9. Offers same-day care for non-emergency health concerns.

 

Indigenous Health

• Indigenous Health Services: Fraser Health provides culturally sensitive health services for Indigenous Peoples, including crisis lines and other support services.

 

Mental Health and Substance Use

• Mental Health and Substance Use Services: Fraser Health offers mental health and substance use services, including crisis lines and other support services.

 

Public Health

• Langley Public Health Unit: Located at #110 - 6470 201 Street, Langley, BC, it offers a range of services to promote health and wellness in the community.

 

Primary Care

• Langley Urgent and Primary Care Centre: This centre provides team-based care for non-emergency health concerns, including same-day care for minor injuries and illnesses.

 

Other Healthcare Services

• Advanced Foot Care by Nurses Inc.: Offers advanced foot care services.
• Advisory: Provides health and wellness services, including nutrition counselling and health coaching.

 

Langley offers a comprehensive range of healthcare services and programs, including hospital and emergency care, home and community care, Indigenous health services, mental health and substance use services, public health services, and primary care.

 

Tourist places in Langley, British Columbia, Canada

Langley, British Columbia, Canada, is a district municipality about 40 km east of Vancouver. It is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. Here are some key points about tourist places in Langley:

 

Historical Sites

• Fort Langley National Historic Site: A historic site and former Hudson’s Bay Company fort, located at 23433 Mavis Ave, Langley Twp, BC V1M 2R5, Canada.
• Fort Langley: A small historic town in North Langley by the Fraser River.

 

Parks and Trails

• Campbell Valley Regional Park: A large park with close to 30 km of trails at 20290 16th Avenue.
• Derby Reach Regional Park: A park near Fort Langley.
• The Fort to Fort Trail: A waterfront trail that’s good for walks and bike rides near Fort Langley.

 

Museums and Adventure Centres

• Canadian Museum of Flight: A small airplane museum at Hangar #3 at 5333-216th Street.
• Extreme Air Park: An indoor trampoline facility at 9499 198th Street.

 

Wineries and Breweries

• Backyard Vineyards: At 3033-232nd Street in Langley.
• Chaberton Estate Winery: At 1064-216th Street.
• Township 7 Vineyards & Winery: At 21152-16th Avenue.
• Vista D’oro Farms & Winery: At 346-208th Street.
• Festina Lente Estate: Langley’s newest winery specializing in mead at 21113 16th Avenue.
• Fraser Valley Cider Company: A place specializing in traditional cider made in small batches using local BC apples at 22128 16th Avenue.
• Roots and Wings Distillery: Langley’s first craft distillery used crops grown on the farm at 7897 240th Street.
• Trading Post Brewing: A popular craft beer brewery at #107 – 20120 64th Avenue.
• Dead Frog Brewery: Another popular local craft beer brewery at #105, 8860 201st Street.

 

Other Attractions

• Langley Events Centre: A large sporting facility at 7888 200th Street where the Vancouver Giants hockey team plays its home games.
• McLeod Athletic Park: A park with an open-air stadium and running track.
• GreenTee Country Club: A nice golf course near Fort Langley that used to be called the Pagoda Ridge Golf Course.
• Poppy Estate Golf Course: An executive course just west of Aldergrove.
• Redwoods Golf Course: A popular golf course at 22011-88th Avenue.
• Twilight Drive-In: Metro Vancouver’s only drive-in movie theatre is located at 3350 260th Street.

 

Festivals and Events

• Polar Bear Swim: A crazy outdoor swimming event on January 1st in the river at Fort Langley most years.
• Fort Langley Historic Half Marathon: Various running races around Fort Langley in February.
• Loft Country Christmas: An old-fashioned Christmas attraction at Aldergrove's children’s horse camp facility.
• Aldergrove Christmas Light Up Parade: A small parade and community event in Aldergrove in December.
• Glow Christmas: A very popular holiday season attraction hosted by Milner Gardens in Langley.
• Martini Town Merry & Bright: A new Christmas attraction started in 2023 at a movie studio.
• Langley’s Magic of Christmas is a one-day event in early December featuring craft stations, live entertainment, and Santa at the Timms Community Centre.
• Christmas in Williams Park: Free drive-through holiday lights displays at Williams Park in December.

 

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