Burrard Bridge looking south, photographed by Joseph Frederick Spalding, ca. 1932
Background
A brief history of Vancouver's most iconic and popular bridge
The Burrard Bridge was opened in 1932, and now carries as much traffic as either of the other two more modern bridges nearby (Granville Bridge has two extra lanes). It is one of the most popular walking and cycling routes in the city, forming a natural, direct and scenic route between the west side and downtown.
Since the 1990's, more than 30 options have been looked at to accommodate pedestrians and cyclists more safely and comfortably. In 1996, a lane reallocation trial on the bridge was tried, but was abandoned after one week.
Since then, there have been many changes in transportation planning and public transportation choices for the city. In 1997, the City introduced a transportation plan focused, in part, on creating more comfortable walking and cycling options.
Statistics
Vancouver has seen significant growth in walking, cycling, and transit use in the last several years. Between 1994 and 2004:
- bike trips to and within Vancouver increased 180%
- walking trips to and within Vancouver increased 44%
- transit trips to and within Vancouver increased 20%
- the number of vehicles entering Vancouver is down 10%
Statistics show more people are choosing to walk or cycle in and out of the downtown core, while fewer are choosing to drive a vehicle. Transit riders have also increased over the past 10 years, an increase anticipated to continue as the new Canada Line is now operational.
Between June and October 2008, at least eight adult cyclists were injured on the Burrard Street Bridge seriously enough to attend hospital emergency departments. During that same period, one person was injured seriously on each of Cambie Bridge and Granville Bridge. (Source, UBC Study: Kay Teschke)
The City's desire to address public concerns regarding the safety and comfort of cycling or walking over the Burrard Bridge has been well-documented.
Learn more about the bridge
- Staff presented City Council with options for configuring a lane reallocation trial. Read the Report
107 KB - Burrard Bridge sidewalk widening and lighting upgrades
- False Creek Pedestrian and Cyclist Crossings Study
- Burrard Bridge Heritage Study 2 MB
- Find historic photos and documents about the bridge
- Take a tour of the bridge. Learn more about history of the bridge, and how it was constructed. View video
(16 MB)
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