Burrard Bridge Sidewalk Widening and Lighting Upgrades

UPDATE: As of December 2008, this work is on hold pending the outcome of the
Burrard Bridge Lane Reallocation Trial

Burrard Bridge circa 1940s The City of Vancouver is planning improvements to the pedestrian and cycling crossings of False Creek, starting with the Burrard Bridge. In 2000, the False Creek Pedestrian and Cyclist Study concluded that improvements should be made at the deck level of the Burrard Bridge.

Two options evaluated for further study were:

Widening the existing sidewalks outward
Conversion of traffic lanes to accommodate cyclists

This study had comprehensive public consultation, involving stakeholder workshops and public open house events.

In 2002, a more detailed assessment of various design options at the deck or upper level of the bridge, including the outward extension of the sidewalks, was completed. These options were to be consistent with transportation capacity, safety and heritage principles.

The two options which best met the City's goals were:

Widening of the sidewalks for the full length of the bridge with a bypass around the main towers
Widening of the sidewalks for most of the length of the bridge, except at the main towers

Subsequently, Council directed staff to complete the design of both the sidewalk options. Since late 2006, a team of structural engineers, architects and heritage experts have been developing the detailed design for widening the Burrard Bridge sidewalks. This work is expected to be complete in early 2008.

In November 2007, open houses were held at the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre and at Roundhouse Community Centre for the public to view and comment on the proposed plans.

The following presentation boards outlining the proposed plans were displayed at the open houses: