New designs show how overpass aims to fix Burnaby's worst traffic crunch (PHOTOS)

Having already heard from the community once, the Vancouver Port Authority is looking for additional public feedback on the design for the proposed Holdom Overpass project that aims to fix a major traffic crunch in Burnaby.

Part of the Burnaby rail corridor improvements project, the overpass is one of the priority upgrades to improve the flow of trains to and from port terminals in North Vancouver, according to a news release. The Holdom overpass itself would build a four-lane span, extending Holdom Avenue south over the rail corridor and Still Creek and connecting with Douglas Road. The Douglas Road rail crossing, then, would be closed to vehicles. For decades, vehicles have piled up waiting at this train crossing.

Updated guiding principles

Having entered the second round of public engagement at the beginning of the month, the port authority released a video showing changes made to the proposal through suggestions from the public. Among the first changes made were to some of the project’s guiding principles. 

The authority’s promise to design the overpass with the future in mind was updated to be mindful of other work planned for the area and reduce the impacts of climate change. The project’s guideline to enable walking and cycling across the overpass was changed to prioritize the self-propelled modes of transportation. Also, the authority’s pledge to make intuitive road connections was updated to include the goal of reducing traffic congestion and maintaining already existing road connections.

Overpass structure

As for the layout of the overpass itself, the proposed route would link the Holdom SkyTrain station along Lougheed Highway and Holdom Avenue to the south industrial areas of Douglas Road And Norland Avenue.

The Port of Vancouver's proposed designs for the Holdom Overpass project. By Port of Vancouver

“Based on the feedback from the community we are proposing a separated walking and cycling path that is physically separated from vehicle traffic on both sides of the overpass,” the video’s narrator explains. “This will enable walking and cycling to and across the bridge that is accessible, safe and comfortable for people of all ages and abilities.”

The Port of Vancouver's proposed designs for the Holdom Overpass project. By Port of Vancouver

Also inspired by public feedback is the idea to integrate the south end of the overpass into Douglas Road at Norland Avenue to maintain access and connections to local destinations in the area. At the north end of the overpass the authority proposes extending Goring street eastward and connecting it to Kingsland Drive to maintain access to local businesses.

The Port of Vancouver's proposed designs for the Holdom Overpass project. By Port of Vancouver

Public space improvements

To make the structure visually appealing, the authority is looking at including interpretive, wayfinding and informational signs to tell the story of the region. Also being looked into are decorative columns, artistic railings and barrier designs along with the inclusion of Indigenous art and sculptures. 

The Port of Vancouver's proposed designs for the Holdom Overpass project. By Port of Vancouver

Several lookout points along the overpass are also proposed with the intention of providing an elevated view of the Central Valley Greenway and Still Creek. The proposed design includes lighting both on and under the overpass and paving the portion of the Central Valley Greenway that interfaces with the overpass.

The Port of Vancouver's proposed designs for the Holdom Overpass project. By Port of Vancouver

The second feedback period ends April 11. To provide more feedback the port authority can be contacted by email at [email protected] or over the phone at 778-957-9444. More information about procurement opportunities for contractors and design consultants is available online.