Traffic detours coming to the Granville Bridge starting March 2

The next phase of work on the Granville Connector project requires the temporary closure of Granville Street between the Howe/Seymour ramps and Drake Street starting March 2.

Over the coming months, crews will remove the section of the existing bridge structure north of Pacific Street and replace it with a new, elevated roadway section of Granville Street that will connect to a new local road network, replacing the former north loops. Granville Street is expected to reopen by fall 2024. During this time all road users will be detoured to the Howe and Seymour ramps. Access for residents and businesses will be retained throughout construction.

The work is part of a $50 million capital project creating a safer, more accessible crossing for walking, rolling, and cycling.

Traffic management

The following changes are planned for the north end of the bridge:

• Two lanes of traffic will be available on both Seymour and Howe ramps for vehicles driving on and off the bridge during construction.
• Sidewalks on both sides of the bridge, including the Howe and Seymour ramps, will remain open as much as possible throughout construction.
• Pedestrians will be detoured via sidewalks on the Howe and Seymour ramps.
• View a map of the traffic detours.

Transit detours

• Buses into downtown will be detoured off the bridge along the Seymour offramp and return to Granville Street via Davie Street.
• Buses leaving downtown will be detoured from Granville Street along Davie Street and Howe Street onto the bridge.
• View a map of the transit detours.

Granville Connector construction to date

The upgraded bridge will connect commuters with separated walking, rolling, and cycling lanes, similar to the protected lanes on the Burrard Bridge and Dunsmuir Viaduct. The first milestone of the project began in summer 2023 with the removal of the north end traffic loops on/off of Pacific Street. This is the first step in constructing a new street network at the north end of the bridge, creating new opportunities for housing and local services. 

Traffic tips:

• If you are travelling in and around the area, plan ahead and expect delays.
• Please abide by “No Parking” signs and “Pedestrian Detour” signs in the area. 
• To stay ahead of road closures throughout the city, visit our road closures page or download the Van311 app for information on the go.
• 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.

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. Learn more about the Granville Connector project.