City of Vancouver outlines traffic impact during planned water main replacement

After the city recently confirmed its plan to replace an almost 100-year-old section of water main in downtown Vancouver starting in January, residents are being advised to plan ahead for traffic disruptions that will result as part of the project.

The planned work comes after the water main burst for the second time in three months earlier this month.

With a targeted completion date for the project pegged at mid-April, the city said commuters should to “plan ahead and expect delays” as traffic management in the area during construction takes place.

Starting on January 6, 2020, engineering crews will begin replacing a critical water main along West Georgia St. between Thurlow and Howe streets. Lanes will be reduced along these blocks until the project is completed.

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During construction, crews will be installing 375 meters of new water main in three phases from Howe to Thurlow streets. The new water main will last about 100 years and contribute to a more seismically resilient water network.

The city said that during construction:

• A minimum of three traffic lanes will be maintained in areas where construction is occurring: two lanes westbound and one lane eastbound;
• During rush hours, two lanes in each direction will normally be maintained.
• Throughout construction, traffic lanes will be opened to the travelling public as soon as it’s feasible to do so.