We’re developing conceptual plans for an improved walking, rolling, and cycling path across Granville Bridge.
Originally designed for high volume freeways that were never built, Granville Bridge presents significant accessibility and safety challenges for today’s urban context.
Addressing these challenges by improving conditions for walking, rolling, and cycling are key to accommodating the growing number of people living, working, and playing in the city and region.
Our engagement process will also include opportunities for big ideas around public space such as art, seating, and lookout stations to provide scenic views from the bridge.
What's happening
The first phase of our public engagement process was underway from April 4 to May 10.
As part of this phase, we sought feedback on the proposed goals, how you use the bridge today, as well as your aspirations for the kind of connection Granville Bridge could be.
We’re currently reviewing feedback from phase one. In the meantime, be sure to sign up for our e-newsletter to stay informed.
Current challenges
By City of Vancouver
Granville Bridge was designed to connect to high-speed, high-volume freeways that were never built.The freeway-style design presents significant safety and accessibility challenges for today’s urban context.
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Narrow and uncomfortable sidewalks next to high-speed traffic
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Steps in the sidewalks at crossings make the bridge inaccessible for people with mobility aids such as wheelchairs and scooters.
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Unsignalized crosswalks at vehicle ramps feel unsafe and contribute to motor vehicle collisions.
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Confusing connections due to vehicle ramps and signage designed for high-speed traffic
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No cycling facilities across the bridge means people cycling either share a travel lane with high-speed motor traffic, or mix with pedestrians on the sidewalk.
Proposed goals
The improvements would:
- Make walking, rolling, and cycling across the bridge accessible, safe, and comfortable for people of all ages and abilities
- Provide direct and intuitive walking, rolling, and cycling connections to key destinations and to the rest of the network
- Create a special place that provides an enjoyable experience for all
- Accommodate motor vehicles, considering the needs of transit, emergency services, and people driving
- Design with the future in mind, considering related projects and opportunities to coordinate work
Get updates
This project email newsletter will provide updates on construction, opportunities to provide feedback, and final decisions by Council.
Contact us
Project area
Timeline
Here is our timeline and anticipated milestones. The timeline is subject to change based on input and direction by Council.
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January 30, 2019
Council approval
Council approves moving forward with public engagement to inform additional design options as part of improvements to the bridge.
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Spring 2019
Phase 1
We’re seeking feedback on the draft goals, how you use the bridge today, and your aspirations for the kind of connection Granville Bridge could be.
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We are here
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Summer 2019
Phase 2
We’ll report back on what we heard in Phase 1, and reach out to present and hear your feedback on high-level design options for improved walking, rolling, and cycling connections on the bridge.
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Fall 2019
Phase 3
We’ll report back on what we heard in Phase 2 and present an evaluation of the design options.
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Winter 2019
Council decision
The proposed design will be presented to Council for review. Pending Council approval, this timeline will be updated to reflect implementation.
Related projects
Granville Bridge Upgrades
Learn about the structural and seismic upgrades to the Granville Bridge.
Arbutus Greenway
When complete, the Arbutus Greenway will enable you to walk or cycle continuously from Marpole in South Vancouver to False Creek.
Broadway Plan
This is the start of a comprehensive planning and engagement process for the area of Broadway between Clark Drive and Vine Street.
Broadway Subway
Our top transportation priority is extending the Millennium Line along Broadway to connect jobs and innovation hubs.
Transportation 2040 Plan
Our plan provides a vision for how people and goods move in and around Vancouver for the next 30 years.
