Burrard Bridge to Close Temporarily This Weekend for Crane Removal
The Burrard Street Bridge, a critical artery into downtown Vancouver, will be temporarily closed to all vehicle traffic this weekend. The closure is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday mornings, specifically between 7 a.m. and noon, to facilitate the safe dismantling and removal of a large construction crane at the adjacent Sen̓áḵw development project.
Traffic Disruptions and Alternative Routes
During the closure hours, all vehicle lanes on the bridge will be shut down, with the bridge expected to reopen after 12 p.m. on both days. This disruption is likely to cause significant traffic congestion, especially given the expected influx of visitors for the Rugby Sevens tournament at B.C. Place, which typically draws nearly 70,000 fans each weekend.
For non-vehicle traffic:
- Cyclists traveling north can still use the east side bike lane.
- Cyclists heading south must dismount and walk their bikes along the east side or find an alternate route.
- Pedestrians will retain access to the sidewalk on the east side of the bridge.
Buses that normally cross the bridge will be rerouted. Commuters are advised to check translink.ca/alerts for specific route changes and updates. Vancouver Police traffic personnel will be on site to manage public movement and ensure safety during the operation.
Background on the Sen̓áḵw Development
The crane removal is part of the ongoing Sen̓áḵw development, a massive project on 4.2 acres of Squamish Nation land located next to the Burrard Bridge. This development, which began construction in September 2022, plans to feature more than 11 towers with 6,000 rental units and 1,200 homes. The temporary bridge closure is a necessary step to safely remove construction equipment as the project progresses.
Residents and visitors are urged to plan ahead for potential delays and consider alternative transportation options during the closure periods to avoid traffic chaos in the downtown core.
