I visited the Greenway a few days ago and saw lots going on, as the temporary Greenway takes shape, giving hints about the future, and the abandoned railroad track becomes a memory.
As usual, click a photo to enlarge it.
At Burrard & Greenway, a traffic signal is now in place. Greenway travelers get a signal pole on both east and west sides, each with a crossing button. Note the new crosswalk on Burrard and painted lane dividers on the asphalt part of the Greenway.
At several places, a centreline divider is visible, with what appears to be potting soil awaiting plants.
Likewise, crews were spreading soil on the edges of the temporary pathway. One person on the crew told me that the plan is to plant wild flowers there. I like it.
Arbutus rolling – Eastside still the divide. Way back in 2013 the city plan was to make lots of improvements to Renfrew Ravine. To date, all that has been done is the removal of some blackberries and brush – which are vigorously growing back. A small number of other species were planted. It’s the biggest ravine in the city; it’s beside a Skytrain station. It could be a fascinating place – worth visiting. Too bad it’s not in the West Side.
Perhaps it’s because we Eastsiders are the Skim de la Skim.
The CoV-CP agreement has an option clause. The CoV must complete the planning of the right of way within two years and deliver the plans to CP. The Arbutus Greenway has areas of property attached to the track lands which could be used by the CoV for civic uses or sold.
After their review in two years CP can elect to either have the section of the right of way from Fir to 1st Ave. or share in a percentage of the funds generated from the sale of the right of way lands the CoV shows will be developed. Future sales of the property will be split by means of a sliding scale.
In order to have a quick and meaningful discussion with the public, a temporary path is being constructed with five different layouts so citizens can know and experience the right of way.