Environmental residential lane - "Country Lane" treatment
In an effort to be environmentally responsible by reducing the amount of surface water entering the storm/sewer system, the City of Vancouver has adopted two sustainable alternatives to full width lane paving. One of these alternative has been referred to as the "Country Lane" treatment the other is the centre strip option.
The "Country Lane" alternative provides the functionality of an improved surface for vehicles yet maintain the ambiance of country living through the use of pavers, grass and other landscaped features.
There have been strong interest for this alternative from the public and other municipalities. The City of Vancouver has received accolades for our efforts. The most recent from the Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators: Honourable Mention for the CAMA USFilter 2003 Environmental Award. The award was presented in Winnepeg on May 28, 2003. The CAMA USFilter Awards are presented to municipalities that have demonstrated the utmost excellence and professionalism in the administration of their projects. The Environmental Award is presented to projects that have a significant positive impact on the environment.
Furthermore, each year the American Public Works Association recognizes outstanding indviduals, groups and chapters representing the best in the public works profession. The Technical Innovation Award recognizes municipalities that exhibit superior development and implementation of a creative idea, device, process or system that enhances the goals of public works in serving the public and protecting the environment. In August of 2004, Dave Rudberg, Director of Engineering will receive on behalf of the City of Vancouver, the 2003 APWA Technical Innovation Award - Trophy presented in San Diego, California.
Three lane locations were identified as pilot project sites. Each location was constructed in a different manner to better evaluate constuction material, techniques and expenses. One site was completed in October 2003, and the remaining two projects have been completed or in the process of completion. The locations are as follows:
- Project No. 1 - Lane south of 27th Ave. - lane east of Fraser St. to the lane west of Pr. Albert St.
- Project No. 2 - Lane east of Maple St. from 5th Avenue to the Dead End South
- Project No. 3 - Lane south of Yale St. from Slocan St. to Kaslo St.
For further details, watch a video detailing the process.
Scope of work
- removal of the temporary surface
- grading and preparation of the entire lane allowance
- placement of concrete, gravel, plastic mat, pavers, grassgrid etc.
Key benefits
- dust reduction
- rural appearance
- retention of green verges
- environmentally friendly
- reduce loading to storm/sewer system
Improvement charges
Owners are assessed for part of the overall cost of lane construction. The City also contributes towards the cost of construction. The amount the city contributes has not yet been determine at this time but it will be at least equivalent to cost sharing of a standard lane improvement. The costs for this improvement projects can be paid in a lump sum or carried over a 15 year period.
The amount each property owner contributes is based upon the assessable length of their property multiplied by flat rates which have yet to be determined. Usually the assessable length is the frontage length of the lot. However, there are lots that are unusual in shape and may be eligible for equitable adjustments. Please refer to assessment for improvements for more detail.
Current rates for "Country Lane" improvements
| Zoning | Lump Sum | Annual |
| Residential | TBD* | TBD* |
* To be determined
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