Water main upgrades on West Pender Street start May 6

Starting May 6, the City will begin phase one of its work to replace aging water mains on West Pender Street. City crews will be installing new drinking water pipe infrastructure between Burrard Street and Bute Street. This phase is anticipated to be completed by November 2024.

This two-phase project is part of the 2023-26 Capital Plan PDF file (3.2 MB), the City’s plan for investing in infrastructure and amenities that support and enhance Vancouver’s livability, sustainability and resilience. Phase 2, which will span from Bute Street to Cardero Street, is scheduled to start in spring 2025.

Once complete, the surrounding area will benefit from one kilometre of new drinking water pipe infrastructure with a lifespan of up to 100 years.

Traffic management

There will be significant traffic impacts to the area, in particular at the intersection of West Pender Street and Burrard Street. Road users are advised to use an alternative route when possible. Construction will start the morning of Monday, May 6, and will not impact the BMO Vancouver Marathon on Sunday, May 5.

Starting May 6, the following changes to traffic flow will be in place

• For the first month of construction:
  • Burrard Street will be reduced to one lane of traffic in each direction between Dunsmuir Street and West Hastings Street.
  • West Pender Street will be restricted to bus-only access from Hornby Street to Thurlow Street.
• Following this initial work:
  • Burrard Street will return to normal traffic flow between Dunsmuir Street and West Hastings Street.
  • West Pender Street will be re-opened but reduced to one lane in each direction from Burrard Street to Bute Street for the duration of phase 1.
• There will be rolling intersection closures as the project progresses. Occasionally, single-lane-alternating traffic might be in place to facilitate construction activities.
• Bus stops may be temporarily closed or relocated.
• Pedestrian access will remain throughout the project, except for short durations during specific work activities, where detour signage will be in place.

Learn more about the project.

Traffic tips

• If you are travelling in and around the area, plan ahead and expect delays.
• Follow all detours and abide by “No Parking” signs in the area.
• Follow #VanTraffic or use our traffic cameras to check traffic conditions along your commute.
• Visit translink.ca/alerts External website, opens in new tab for changes or disruptions to your bus service.

As the Canucks continue their quest for the Stanley Cup, remember to plan ahead if travelling in and out of downtown on game days. This includes:

• Stay ahead of road closures at vancouver.ca/road-closures
• Taking transit, walking or cycling are the best options to get around town on game days
• Allow for extra time to get to where you need to go – especially near Rogers Arena