BC Parkway plan unveiled

LaurenVanderdeen lvanderdeen@burnabynow com

Burnaby Mayor Mike Hurley has revealed new plans to establish the BC Parkway in Metrotown as a “destination unto itself ”

“Today, the BC Parkway is a critical east-west connection for walking, cycling, and of course, rapid transit,” Hurley said April 26 in a video presented at the annual State of the City address hosted by the Burnaby Board of Trade

“But it falls far short of its potential of being a great urban space in the heart of Burnaby’s downtown ”

The mayor said the parkway could be more

Enjoy than a utility corridor: it could be “an extension of Central Park, an exciting linear park that runs through the heart of Metrotown all the way to Royal Oak (SkyTrain) station.”

“Our vision is for the

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BC Parkway to reflect the spirit of our community, highlighting the diversity of Burnaby and the incredible vibrant array of activities and culture in our city,” Hurley said in the video, noting it could include public art installations, recreation opportunities, spaces to lounge and grab a bite to eat.

He noted the public has already seen a glimpse of what that could look like at last year’s Canada Day street party festivities.

City council has asked staff to develop a detailed urban design plan for the Metrotown part of the BC Parkway, according to the project webpage More updates will come in the next few months