Burnaby has released renderings of a proposal for the BC Parkway enhancement project featuring dog parks, playgrounds, pollinator gardens and more.
The city wants to transform the Burnaby section of the 26-kilometre multi-use path running under the SkyTrain's Expo Line from a utility corridor into a vibrant linear park.
The city has now released new designs and display boards for the next phase of public engagement on the project.
Divided into six areas stretching from Boundary Road to Royal Oak SkyTrain station, the renderings begin with the gateway to Burnaby at Boundary Road, showcasing new “feature lighting” to signal the entrance into Burnaby.
The city has planned a plaza there, subject to development plans for the Telus site, and it could include a “remnant brick wall” from the old Central Park interurban station.
The city is also considering bringing back the historic 1913-built wrought iron Central Park arch.
East of Patterson, the city proposes a youth-oriented recreational park, like a pump track or skate and scooter park, and a dog park.
“There is a lack of dog parks in the area overall,” said the display board.
Community gardens and a picnic area, as well as community stewardship programs like a beehive installation, are also planned.
Across from Civic Square at Metrotown SkyTrain station, the city imagines an open green space for organized community gatherings like dance or Tai Chi, as well as a flex space for events and art installations.
Permanent pod structures could allow small-scale commercial uses and vendors, like cafes for food and beverage amenities, according to the boards.
The city is also suggesting a “landmark” piece of public art to “celebrate and elevate the heart of Burnaby’s downtown.”
South of Bonsor, the city has pencilled in a recreational park with pollinator plants or grasslands to turn the “expansive flat green into an immersive undulating landscape”
At Royal Oak, Burnaby hopes to add a playground, dog park and community gardens, alongside dedicated seating and tables for much-loved businesses like La Foret.
The city is also researching including aspects of Indigenous culture and learning, as there is evidence of a historical village nearby, according to the board.
BC Hydro owns the corridor with several sections claimed by TransLink and other utilities.
The city will coordinate with the relevant organizations to ensure the utility maintenance requirements will be met.
City staff are currently taking public feedback on the proposal and hope to finalize the draft plan by the end of the year.
Public engagement: have your say
The city is holding an online survey for feedback on the BC Parkway project until Monday, Oct. 14.
You can also attend a drop-in open house to learn more about the proposed concept and speak to the project team and representatives from TransLink.
- Saturday, Oct. 5 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Bonsor Recreation Complex (Multi-purpose Room 1)
- Sunday, Oct. 6 from 10 a.m. to noon at Metrotown SkyTrain station (north entrance)
- For seniors over the age of 55: Tuesday, Oct. 8 from 5:30 to 5:30 p.m. at Bonsor Recreation Complex, 55+ Centre (register by emailing [email protected])
- For youth between 10 and 18 years old: Wednesday, Oct. 16 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Bonsor Recreation Complex’s banquet hall (register by emailing [email protected])
Help shape the BC Parkway in Burnaby. Engage with our project team and TransLink representatives to learn about the proposed improvements to the corridor. Check out our pop-up event schedule: 1/3 pic.twitter.com/HaqND41RU7
— City of Burnaby (@CityofBurnaby) October 1, 2024
