Study looks at 5 possible rapid transit routes to ease North Shore traffic woes

A study looking ata high-capacity rapid transit crossing that would connect theNorth Shoreto Vancouver, Burnaby and beyond has narrowedits scope of technically possible crossing options, says B.C.'s Ministry of Transportation.

In the second phase of theBurrard Inlet Rapid Transit study, or BIRT, the ministry released its short list Tuesday offive possible, technically feasible routesthat would useeither a bridgeora tunnel as optionsto connect to existing transit infrastructure.

"This study shows possibilities that can be considered in future planning,"said Claire Trevena, B.C.'s minister of transportation and infrastructure.

Four of the options originate in the City of Vancouverbut all connect along North Vancouver's Lonsdalecorridorto the region's existing rapid transit network, according to the study which formspart of TransLink'sTransport 2050 plan.

Short list of 5crossings

• Tunnel crossing from downtown Vancouver to Lonsdale via First Narrows.
• Tunnel crossing from downtown Vancouver to Lonsdale via Brockton Point.
• Tunnel crossing from downtown Vancouver to West Vancouver via Lonsdale.
• Bridge crossing from downtown Vancouver to Lonsdale via Second Narrows.
• Bridge crosssing from Burnaby to Lonsdale via Second Narrows.

The sixth route considered during the first phase of the BIRT study exploredusing the existing Ironworkers Memorial Second Narrows Bridgeto supporta rail line beneath the structurebut was rejected due to the impact onshipping and modern seismic requirements, according to the study.

TransLink will now analyze which options would work best within the existing transit system to help meet ridership demand, according to a written statement from the B.C. government.

Thestudy was funded by the province, the City of Vancouverandseveral North Shore municipalities.