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Top Ten Endangered Sites
Top 10 2004 |
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(Updated)
Completed in 1932 to provide a highlevel 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. To facilitate
cyclist and pedestrian use, the previous City Council was
considering demolition of the concrete railings and the addition
of 'outrigger' sidewalks. Without the original railings, the
bridge will lose its strong edges, and its architectural features
will be isolated. The proposed outrigger structures will radically
alter the external appearance of this landmark structure.
A coalition of stakeholders, including Heritage
Vancouver, has written the present Council stating that the
proposals are unacceptable — from both a transportation
and heritage perspective. The coalition is asking Council
to consider instead dedicating the two outer traffic lanes
to non-motorized traffic, a solution that would involve little
alteration to the bridge itself. Other non-intrusive options
could also be considered.
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 |
|
Jan
30, 1932; Bridge under construction, looking
towards English Bay; Photo courtesy the Vancouver
Public Library |
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