Ridge Meadows RCMP detachment splits in two

The RCMP logo is seen in Surrey, B.C., on Thursday, March 16, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck

The former integrated Ridge Meadows RCMP detachment has been split in two, to serve the cities of Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows separately.

The change, which has been years in the making, goes into effect on Wednesday.

The B.C. RCMP says extensive planning and risk assessment has taken place since the province approved the de-integration in 2021.

In a news release Wednesday, Asst. Comm. Elija Rain assured residents that the RCMP’s Lower Mainland District would continue to support both detachments as they make the change, saying “operations in collision analysis and reconstruction, police dog services, emergency response, forensic identification and homicide investigations remain in place and will continue without disruption.”

The change is being welcomed by the mayors of both cities.

“The establishment of two autonomous detachments marks a significant step forward, allowing for more dedicated resources, enhanced local oversight and a stronger focus for each community,” Pitt Meadows Mayor Nicole MacDonald said in the release.

Maple Ridge Mayor Dan Ruimy congratulated the city of Pitt Meadows on their own independent detachment, while telling residents of his own city that “they will continue to receive the same high standard of professional policing services.”

The former Ridge Meadows detachment facility has been renamed as the Maple Ridge RCMP detachment in the transition, and they will keep the same address and non-emergency contact information.

The new Pitt Meadows RCMP detachment will eventually open at 12486 Harris Rd. Until then, front counter police services will be available at the Community Policing Office behind City Hall.

An open house is being planned for the public at the new facility in the fall.