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About Langley, BC

Langley City Hall

History of Langley, BC

Langley, British Columbia, has a rich history that dates back to early European settlement. Originally known as “Innes Corners” after homesteader Adam Innes, the area later became “Langley Prairie” in 1911 as part of the Township of Langley. The construction of transportation infrastructure like the British Columbia Electric Railway, Fraser Highway, and Pattullo Bridge in the early 20th century transformed Langley from a rural area into an urban and commercial hub. This growth led to the need for improved amenities and infrastructure.

Despite the need for development, the municipal government initially resisted funding such projects due to the influence of farming communities and rural business centers. This resistance sparked discussions of secession from Langley Prairie in the 1930s. The push for independence gained momentum in the 1950s, driven by issues like street lights and equitable distribution of municipal services. A referendum on secession in September 1954 passed with over 85% of the vote, resulting in the official secession of Langley Prairie from the Township of Langley to become the City of Langley on March 15, 1955.

Langley City’s development has been influenced by geographical factors such as the Nicomekl River and the intersection of major roads like Fraser Highway and Glover Road. Its downtown area developed around Old Yale Road, which later became Fraser Highway. The city’s street layout is characterized by a mixture of north-south streets and east-west avenues, though various natural and artificial barriers have shaped its unique grid pattern.

Langley City features numerous parks, such as Douglas Park, which hosts events and performances, and Sendall Gardens, known for its botanical attractions. The city is also home to various sports teams and facilities, including the Langley Rams of the Canadian Junior Football League and the Langley Events Centre, which hosts the Langley Rivermen hockey team and other sports events.

In terms of government, Langley City is governed by a mayor and council and is part of the Canadian federal electoral district of Langley. The city has a diverse population, with European, South Asian, Southeast Asian, Indigenous, East Asian, African, Middle Eastern, and Latin American communities contributing to its multicultural fabric. The City has experienced growth in recent years, and its dynamic history continues to shape its vibrant present.

Is it Safe to Live in Langley, BC

Located in British Columbia, Langley is known for its unique demographic composition, educational institutions, and a wide range of recreational opportunities, collectively contributing to its reputation as a moderately safe community. The city’s overall sense of safety for its residents is underpinned by several key elements:

  • Demographics: Langley City, situated in Metro Vancouver, BC, emerged as an urban center from rural roots after enhanced transportation access. Its layout is shaped by barriers, impacting the road network. The downtown, set along Fraser Highway, is pedestrian-friendly, complemented by diverse parks like Douglas Park. The population, per the 2021 Census, is around 28,963, encompassing a mix of ethnicities including European, South Asian, Southeast Asian, Indigenous, East Asian, African, Middle Eastern, and Latin American communities.
  • Education: Langley City, part of Metro Vancouver Regional District in British Columbia, Canada, is surrounded by the Township of Langley. It became a city on March 15, 1955, after seceding from the township. Langley City is known for its unique road network due to natural and artificial barriers. It is home to various parks, including Douglas Park and McBurney Plaza. Education is provided by School District 35 Langley, and it hosts campuses of Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) and Trinity Western University (TWU). The city lacks rapid transit but has plans for a SkyTrain extension.
  • Low Crime Rates: Langley, BC’s fire department ensures fire protection, emergency response, and hazardous material control. The Langley RCMP maintains law and order, investigates crimes, and ensures public safety through patrolling and emergency response. Together, these agencies work to safeguard the city’s residents, property, and well-being.
  • Recreation: Langley, BC offers diverse recreation activities, including parks like Douglas Park with an adventure playground, Langley Events Centre hosting hockey and basketball games, and Uplands Dog Off-Leash Park for pet owners. There are also cultural events in Douglas Park’s Langley Spirit Square and sports facilities like Timms Community Centre and Al Anderson Memorial swimming pool.
  • Community: Langley, BC offers a vibrant community with attractions like Douglas Park featuring an adventure playground and Langley Spirit Square, hosting events and performances. The Langley Events Centre houses sports teams like Langley Rivermen, while Timms Community Centre and Al Anderson Memorial pool provide recreational facilities.
fort langley historic site

Things to do in Langley, BC

Langley, British Columbia, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a variety of attractions and activities to offer. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical sites, enjoying outdoor recreational spaces, or experiencing its arts and culture, Langley has something for everyone. Here are some of the notable attractions and things to do in Langley:

  • Downtown Langley: The heart of Langley City, the downtown area offers a pedestrian-oriented atmosphere with restaurants, shops, and cafes. Fraser Highway, often called “The One-Way,” is lined with businesses and is a focal point for shopping and dining.
  • McBurney Plaza: A vibrant public space in downtown Langley featuring outdoor seating, greenery, and a pedestrian boulevard. It’s a popular spot for events, street performances, and gatherings.
  • Douglas Park: A central park in Langley City with an adventure playground, tennis courts, water park, bowling green, and more. The park hosts various events and performances, including the annual Shakespeare performance “Bard in the Valley.”
  • Sendall Gardens: A beautiful botanical garden with a wide variety of plants, shrubs, and trees. The garden features two duck ponds and is a peaceful place to enjoy nature.
  • Langley Events Centre: A major sports and entertainment complex in the Township of Langley. It’s home to the Langley Rivermen hockey team and hosts a variety of events, concerts, and sports competitions.
  • Fort Langley National Historic Site: Just outside Langley City, you can explore the historic Fort Langley, a Hudson’s Bay Company fur trading post that played a significant role in the region’s history.
  • Nature Trails and Parks: Langley offers numerous parks with walking trails, playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. Brydon Park, City Park, Rotary Centennial Park, and more provide outdoor recreation options.
  • Langley’s Farmers Markets: Experience the local food scene at one of Langley’s farmers markets, where you can find fresh produce, artisanal goods, and more.
  • Historic Murrayville: Explore the charming Murrayville neighborhood with its historic buildings, local shops, and cozy cafes.

From historical sites to cultural events and natural beauty, Langley, BC, offers a diverse range of attractions and activities that showcase the city’s unique character and charm. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, you’ll find plenty to explore and enjoy in this vibrant community.

Langley, BC lies to the west of Abbotsford and is bordered by the City of Surrey to the northwest, forming part of Metro Vancouver. Positioned south of the Fraser River, Langley encompasses both urban and rural landscapes, contributing to the region’s diverse character.

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