NEXT week, the north end of the Granville Bridge reopens with priority access for transit headed downtown. The newly constructed, elevated roadway section of Granville Street, north of Pacific Street, replaces the former north loops and a section of bridge structure, as part of the Granville Connector project.
To help provide faster and more reliable bus service into downtown, only transit vehicles, taxis, cyclists and local traffic will be able to travel northbound through the intersection of Granville Street at Drake Street – all other vehicles will be required to turn onto Drake Street.
Vehicles accessing downtown can continue to use Seymour Street, the main northbound route from the Granville Bridge. The blocks of Granville Street between Drake Street and Smithe Street will continue to be accessed by all vehicles from east-west streets. All vehicles will be able to travel southbound through the intersection of Granville Street and Drake Street onto the bridge.
The Granville Connector is a $50 million capital project creating a safe and accessible crossing for walking, rolling, and cycling. Construction continues this fall with work expected to be complete by early 2025.
In addition to continued work on the north end’s new local road network, construction work will now start on the west side of the bridge. Upgrades will provide safe, accessible pedestrian crossings, more space and safety for those walking, cycling and rolling across the bridge.
Construction includes installing:
- traffic signals, traffic islands, and gravity barriers
- bicycle friendly expansion joint cover plates
- paint markings and signage to guide pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles
During this time, the west side of the bridge will be primarily closed to pedestrians to allow for safe construction. Pedestrian access across the bridge will be retained on the east sidewalk.
The Howe Street on-ramp will also be closed overnight from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. for approximately eight weeks to accommodate line removal / painting and other lower noise activities.
Traffic tips:
- If you are travelling in and around the area, plan ahead and expect delays.
- Abide by “No Parking” signs and “Pedestrian Detour” signs in the area.
- To stay ahead of road closures throughout the city, visit the City’s road closures page or download the Van311 app for information on the go.
- Follow #VanTraffic or use traffic cameras to check traffic conditions along your commute.
- Visit translink.ca/alerts for changes to your bus service.
Background
Constructed in 1954, Granville Bridge was originally designed for freeways that were never built. Its current form is not accessible and presents a number of challenges for people who want to walk, bike or roll across the bridge.
In September 2020, Council endorsed the long-term design concept for the Granville Connector and directed staff to proceed with the interim Granville Connector construction which began in February 2023.
Construction includes the installation of new, protected pedestrian and cyclist connections across the Granville Bridge and replacement of the north Granville loops to create a standard street grid layout.
This work will transform the way the bridge is used by creating safer, more convenient access to active transportation and transit while enabling future improvements.
Learn more about the Granville Connector project.
