After all the studies Vancouver has done over this situation, it appears they've never considered an option that seems obvious to this writer.
Simply build a two-level sidewalk on both sides. Keep the lower (present) level for pedestrians and wheelchairs.
Designate the upper level for cyclists - the west side for southbound only and the east side for northbound only (same as vehicle traffic).
The cost estimates of the various options the city's looked at so far have been up to $45 million (which in all likelihood would balloon to $60-80 million).
Two two-level sidewalks could be built at a much lower cost and would provide a number of advantages:
Two safe full-width lanes for both pedestrians and cyclists.
Neither pedestrians nor cyclists would have to cross Granville St. to access the bridge crossing.
No need for detours from Granville St. as cyclists and pedestrians would need with our Mayor's proposed bridge.
The view to the west wouldn't be impeded by a new bridge.
This would address the concerns of the Downtown Vancouver Business Improvement Association regarding people from outlying areas avoiding downtown due to traffic jams, and it would eliminate the current traffic tie-up from Pacific Street eastbound onto the bridge.
The City is planning a $33 million project to fix railings and install crash barriers. By incorporating two-level sidewalks into this project, the sidewalk cost would be reduced.
Regarding logistics, there's room through the archways of the bridge pillars to provide 8' clearance for pedestrians and up to 9.5' clearance at the center of the archway for cyclists. There's room at the north end of the bridge to allow a 10 per cent grade back to street level if the street crossing is realigned. There's room at the south end for an even lower grade.
Regarding the sidewalks, a cement border (at least as high as the current temporary one) should be placed on the vehicle side of the walkway to protect pedestrians from spray and winter slush splashed by traffic as well as protecting them from vehicle crashes.
Lighting (shielded from vehicles) would be installed under the overhead lane for pedestrians at night.
A "drip lip" along either side of the overhead lanes would stop rain and meltwater from running across the underside and dripping on pedestrians.
In short, the solution is simple.
Two two-level sidewalks could be built at a much lower cost and would provide a number of advantages.
