Granville Connector

We're recommending a refined version of the West Side Plus option that was shown in Phase 2.

This was the option preferred by the public and a diverse range of stakeholders. Changes and refinements have been made based on feedback.

Key features include:

• West side main path

  • Wide, accessible sidewalk with room for furniture and special places at key locations
  • Wide two-way bike path with room for passing
  • Protective barrier between the bike path and motor traffic

• East side sidewalk and Hemlock St ramp improvements

  • Wide, accessible sidewalk
  • Protective barrier between the sidewalk and motor traffic

• Fir ramp cycling connection

  • Relatively flat two-way cycling connection with 10th Ave bike route

• Safe, accessible crossings at Howe St, Fir St, Hemlock St, and Seymour St ramps

  • Traffic signals to allow for safe crossing
  • Accessibility ramps to provide access for people using mobility aids

• Connections to the network at each end

  • At south end – via an improved W 5th Ave linking to Arbutus Greenway
  • At north end – via proposed Drake St upgrades
  • Future-proofed for potential Granville Island elevator and staircase

Granville Bridge's freeway-style design can create significant challenges for people walking, cycling, and rolling across the bridge.

The project goals were revised based on public feedback in Phase 1.

1. Support our climate emergency efforts by enabling more trips via sustainable transportation
2. Make walking, rolling, and cycling across the bridge accessible, safe, and comfortable for all ages and abilities
3. Provide direct and intuitive walking, rolling, and cycling connections to key destinations and the sustainable transportation network
4. Create a special place that provides an enjoyable experience for all
5. Enable reliable transit and continued access for emergency vehicles
6. Accommodate motor vehicles, considering the bridge’s role in the regional transportation network
7. Integrate means prevention to deter self-harm
8. Incorporate environmental features, including provisions for rainwater management and wildlife habitat
9. Design for the future, considering compatibility with related projects and flexibility to adapt as the city grows
10. Provide value for money and maximize coordination opportunities

The goals are important because they help inform the criteria to evaluate and compare different options.

The project is important to accommodate the growing number of people living, working, and playing in the city and region. It is key to meeting our Climate Emergency mode share target that by 2030, at least two thirds of all trips in the city will be by active transportation and transit.

It was identified as a priority in the 2001 False Creek Crossings Study and in the City's Transportation 2040 Plan (approved in 2012) as a result of significant public engagement.

In January 2019, Council directed staff to launch a full engagement process.