Vancouver’s Arbutus greenway is finally free of the railway track that for decades ran down the centre of the city like a nasty scar.
The ties and rails have been pulled up, clearing a path for walkers, runners and cyclists who can now traverse the length of the 9-km route from Kitsilano to the Fraser River, said Jerry Dobrovolny, the city’s general manager of engineering.
“You can walk the entire corridor if you’re sure footed (and) able-bodied,” Dobrovolny told reporters Tuesday.
Part of the route is now covered in a temporary asphalt path, which Dobrovolny said will help those with mobility issues or strollers.
The city purchased the corridor from Canadian Pacific Railway for $55 million after a protracted negotiation that left some community gardeners feeling punished. CP agreed to remove its track from the property within two years, but pulled it out in less than five months.
Dobrovolny said city crews put in the asphalt to get people using the corridor as soon as possible so they would become invested in helping to shape its future. Staff plan to spark a design process for the greenway by fall that will take a year or two, he said.
“There’s a tremendous opportunity here,” Dobrovolny said. “There’s migratory routes for birds, there’s some amazing vistas where you can see the downtown, there’s opportunities for active transportation — walking and cycling — potential for dog walking.
There’s also an opportunity to use the corridor to display public art, Dobrovolny added. “There’s tremendous cultural significance along the corridor, both starting and finishing in First Nations’ land.”
Dobrovolny said “the sky’s the limit” on design, but noted the city intends to see the corridor used for both active transportation and enjoyment of nature. And yes, there will be community gardens.
The paved section runs from 16th to 25th avenues, and the next length slated for asphalt runs from 25th to 41st avenues, he said.
