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2002 Top Ten Endangered Sites
Top 10 2002 |
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(Updated)
Completed in 1932 to provide a high-level crossing to the western neighbourhoods, the bridge is a triumph of civic architecture and a key
gateway structure.
Architects Sharp and Thompson, conscious of
the bridge's ceremonial gateway function, embellished the
utilitarian steel superstructure with imposing concrete towers,
torch-like entrance pylons and Art Deco sculptural details.
Unifying the parts are heavy concrete railings, originally
topped by decorative street lamps. But the city might demolish
the concrete railings and add outrigger sidewalks for cyclists
and pedestrians. Without the original railings, the bridge
will lose its edges and its architectural features will be
isolated.
The proposed outriggers will radically alter
the external appearance of this landmark structure. A coalition
of stakeholders, including Heritage Vancouver, has written
city council stating that the proposals are unacceptable —
from both a transportation and heritage perspective.
The coalition is asking council to instead consider
dedicating the two outer traffic lanes to non-motorized traffic,
a solution that would involve little change to the bridge
itself.
Updates:
View the ongoing updates for the Burrard Bridge here (opens in a pop-up window).
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July 6, 1932;
Northside approaches to bridge, Burrard & Pacific Streets;
Photo courtesy the Vancouver Public Library |
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June 27, 1932;
View from NE Granville St & Pacific St looking NW;
Photo courtesy the Vancouver Public Library |
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Aug 1, 1932;
Looking NE. Note the original lamp standards
to the left of the photo, which once lined the bridge;
Photo courtesy the Vancouver Public Library |
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1932;
View looking towards English Bay;
Photo courtesy the Vancouver Public Library |
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1932;
Looking NE towards downtown. Note the original lamp standards,
which once lined the bridge, helping to visually tie in the entrance torches/pillars with the centre massing;
Photo courtesy the Vancouver Public Library |
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Jan 30, 1932;
Bridge under construction, looking towards English Bay;
Photo courtesy the Vancouver Public Library |
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