Ridge Meadows RCMP officially splits into two autonomous detachments
After decades of shared policing, Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows are now served by separate RCMP detachments, marking a major structural shift in how policing is delivered in the region.
Effective April 1, the former integrated Ridge Meadows RCMP Detachment has transitioned into two fully autonomous units, one for each municipality, following a multi-year process approved by the province in 2021.
The change is closely tied to the completion of a new purpose-built RCMP facility in Pitt Meadows, which officials say is central to the city’s move toward independent policing.
Assistant Commissioner Elija Rain, RCMP Lower Mainland District commander, said the transition will not impact frontline services.
“I want to assure the residents of Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows and the q̓ic̓əy̓ (Katzie) First Nation that the RCMP’s Lower Mainland District will continue to provide support,” Rain said, noting regional integrated teams such as IHIT, police dog services, and forensic units will continue operating across both jurisdictions.
New Pitt Meadows detachment years in the making
The de-integration has been closely linked to Pitt Meadows’ long-planned standalone detachment, now located at 12486 Harris Rd.
The new 19,000 sq. ft. building was designed specifically to support autonomous operations and includes modern policing infrastructure and dedicated community space.
Construction of the facility has been underway for several years, with council first advancing the project following studies that recommended Pitt Meadows establish its own policing model rather than continue sharing services with Maple Ridge.
The project represents a significant capital investment for the city, with costs estimated in the range of roughly $23 million.
City officials have framed the new detachment as key to improving local policing responsiveness and aligning services with the community’s specific needs.
“This detachment represents a significant investment in public safety,” the City of Pitt Meadows said in a recent release announcing the building’s completion.
The facility replaces the long-standing shared model, where officers operated out of a single detachment serving both municipalities.
Local control, same regional supports
While the detachments will now operate independently, the RCMP emphasized that specialized services will continue to be delivered through a regional model.
That includes access to integrated Lower Mainland units for major investigations, emergency response and technical policing functions to maintain efficiency while allowing for more localized oversight.
Pitt Meadows Mayor Nicole MacDonald said the shift will bring more focused policing to the smaller city.
“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,” she said.
Maple Ridge Mayor Dan Ruimy said residents can expect continuity despite the organizational change.
“With the transition now complete, Maple Ridge moves forward with a dedicated Maple Ridge RCMP presence focused on the needs of our community,” he said.
Transition continues in Pitt Meadows
Although the new Pitt Meadows detachment building is complete, the transition is still underway.
Front counter services are currently being offered out of the community policing office behind city hall, with a full move into the Harris Road facility expected once operational readiness is finalized.
A public open house is planned for fall 2026, giving residents an opportunity to tour the new detachment and meet officers.
RCMP said day-to-day policing operations remain unchanged.
