Taking away the Georgia and Dunsmuir viaducts could come a lot sooner than first anticipated if Vancouver council approves a new roadway to be built.
This road would connect Prior Street, Main Street, and Quebec Street, to Pacific Boulevard and Georgia Street, eliminating the need for the viaducts.
Jerry Dobrovolny, director of transportation, said this two-way operation would reduce vehicle traffic in staff’s opinion. “Worst-case scenario it would stay the same,” he said.
According to staff, the viaducts were designed to carry 1,800 vehicles per lane, per hour, but they are only carrying 750 at peak times. “They are not living up to their potential,” said Dobrovolny.
Residents and commuters concerned about the removal of the viaducts and the increase in traffic should realize that the viaducts only carry 10 per cent of the traffic entering and leaving downtown. he says.
But for Shachi Kurl, BC director of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, more needs to be done to consult with businesses in the area. “What we’re hearing is that 10 per cent of members that have gotten back to us in the area that’s affected don’t have concerns. So 90 per cent have expressed some concerns,” she said.
She added most of those concerns are around flow of traffic and goods in and out of downtown, and traffic congestion in front of their businesses.
Discussion on the matter will continue Tuesday afternoon, and come back to council in the fall.
“This is a big big decision for Vancouver,” said Mayor Gregor Robertson.
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“It’s a key decision that still has outstanding issues that need to be addressed.”
Robertson said there are five areas he feel still need addressing.
#1 Discussion and consultation with residents along Prior Street with regards to parking and traffic-calming options.
#2 Malkin Street connection needs to be addressed, which is the western connection to Malkin Avenue be included as a means to redirect traffic off Prior Street.
#3 Clear timeline for the changes and benefits for the local residents
#4 Incorporating any removal of the viaducts with the City’s Economic Action Strategy.
#5 Ensuring there are clear messages to allow the flow of commercial goods.
“I still believe there’s a win-win solution,” said Robertson.
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