
The Burrard Street Bridge is one of Vancouver’s most iconic landmarks, with a rich history dating back to the 1930s. It spans False Creek, connecting downtown Vancouver with the city’s western neighborhoods, including Kitsilano and Point Grey. The bridge stands as a symbol of Vancouver’s growth and urban development during the early 20th century.

Early Planning and Design
In the late 1920s, Vancouver was expanding rapidly, and there was increasing pressure to create better connections between the downtown core and the growing suburbs to the west. Prior to the Burrard Bridge, the only way to cross False Creek was through the Granville Street Bridge, which had been built in 1909 and was quickly becoming insufficient due to rising automobile traffic.
In 1930, Vancouver’s City Council approved the construction of a new bridge to alleviate traffic congestion and to accommodate the city’s growing population. The chosen location was Burrard Street, one of the major thoroughfares leading into the downtown core. Renowned architect G.G. (George Grant) McGeer, who was the city’s mayor at the time, played a crucial role in championing the project.

The design of the bridge was carried out by architect John R. Grant and engineer Colonel Charles A. Tate. The Burrard Bridge was envisioned as a mix of Art Deco and Gothic Revival styles, which was quite typical of civic architecture during the period. This design choice gave the bridge a unique and visually appealing appearance that distinguished it from other more utilitarian structures.

Construction
Construction began in 1930 and was completed in 1932, with the official opening taking place on July 1, 1932. The Burrard Bridge, at the time, was a feat of engineering, particularly for a city that was still relatively small. It cost approximately $3 million to build, a significant investment for Vancouver during the Great Depression.
The bridge features a steel truss cantilever design, and its total length is about 700 meters (2,300 feet). It stands approximately 30 meters (98 feet) above False Creek, allowing for the passage of ships and other marine traffic. The bridge includes wide sidewalks and pedestrian railings adorned with lighted pylons, adding to its Art Deco aesthetic.

Role and Evolution
When it opened, the Burrard Bridge quickly became one of the most important traffic arteries in Vancouver, particularly for those living in the western neighborhoods. For decades, the bridge was primarily used by cars, buses, and pedestrians. However, as the city continued to grow, traffic congestion became a persistent issue, and the bridge faced increasing wear and tear.
Throughout the mid-20th century, the Burrard Bridge underwent several rounds of maintenance and minor upgrades, but the structure itself remained largely unchanged.

21st Century Modifications
In the 2000s, the bridge underwent a series of significant changes, driven by Vancouver’s efforts to become a more sustainable and bike-friendly city. Initially, there was debate over whether to widen the bridge to add dedicated bike lanes, but concerns over preserving the historical integrity of the bridge’s design led to a different approach.
In 2009, the city implemented a trial where one of the vehicle lanes was reallocated for bicycles, marking a major shift in how the bridge was used. The trial was successful, and in 2014, a permanent reconfiguration was approved. This involved creating protected bike lanes and improving pedestrian sidewalks, while maintaining the bridge’s historic character.
In 2015, as part of the upgrades, retrofit seismic strengthening was carried out to protect the bridge in case of an earthquake. Additional safety improvements were made, including the installation of suicide prevention barriers, following public concern over incidents on the bridge.

Cultural and Historic Significance
Today, the Burrard Street Bridge is more than just a vital piece of infrastructure; it is an important cultural and historical symbol for Vancouver. Its distinctive Art Deco style and prominent location make it one of the most photographed sites in the city. The bridge is also featured in local artwork and has been used in various films and media representations of Vancouver.
In 2016, the Burrard Bridge was designated a heritage structure, recognizing its architectural significance and its importance to the city’s history. The decision to protect the bridge as a heritage structure ensured that future renovations would need to respect its original design.

Current Use
The bridge continues to serve as a major traffic artery in Vancouver. As of today, it carries tens of thousands of vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians every day. With its improved bike lanes and pedestrian walkways, the Burrard Bridge has become a symbol of Vancouver’s commitment to sustainability and urban livability. The retrofitting and modernization efforts have extended the lifespan of the bridge, ensuring it remains a vital part of the city’s infrastructure for years to come.
In summary, the Burrard Street Bridge is a blend of engineering prowess, artistic design, and urban functionality. From its origins in the early 20th century to its modern-day role as a key part of Vancouver’s transportation network, it has been an enduring symbol of the city’s growth and architectural heritage.

This article was originally published on Beautiful British Columbia.net You can read the original version here: Source is from Beautiful British Columbia .net