City to test two-way traffic on Cordova Street this summer

Starting on May 25, Cordova Street will become two-way for vehicle traffic between Richards Street and Gore Avenue Image file (858 KB). This change will support public space enhancements on Water Street, car-free Pedestrian Zone Sundays, and improve access for residents, service providers and visitors.  
 
Converting Cordova Street to two-way traffic is expected to significantly improve vehicle circulation and access to the area during pedestrian zone days planned in Gastown. This change will also provide valuable insights into a potential future expansion to the Powell Street overpass.  Additionally, traffic lanes on Powell Street between Gore Avenue and Columbia Street will be modified to encourage through-traffic to divert to Cordova. Staff will closely monitor the area and make adjustments as needed. Cordova Street is expected to return to a one-way eastbound street by late September.   
 
Drivers are reminded to observe all updated traffic signals, signage, lane markings and speed limits while navigating the new two-way sections of Cordova Street and modified lanes on Powell Street. 
 
Work preparing to make Cordova Street two-way is already underway. Eastbound vehicle travel will be retained during this work. We thank everyone for their patience while we complete this work.  
 
On Sunday, May 25, Cordova will be fully open as a two-way street . 
 
This summer’s car-free Pedestrian Zone Sundays, public space enhancements and temporary changes to Cordova Street will help inform the Gastown Public Spaces Plan, which will guide future investments in the area.