By: Kevin Cham, alumni

It’s been called a “War Against Wheels” by The Province but nevertheless the Burrard Street Bridge Cycling lane trial is going ahead; despite an ongoing negative media campaign by several major newspapers and radio stations.

The final decision was made by Vancouver City Council on May 7th, 2009 to proceed with a single lane reallocation on the bridge. The outside car lane on the southbound side will become a cycle lane. In addition, the pathway (currently shared between pedestrians and bicycles) on the northbound side of the bridge will become bicycle only. Pedestrians will be expected to cross on the western sidewalk.

There are mixed feelings about this trial, which on the surface appears to pit cyclists against pedestrians and drivers; nobody seems to be particularly ecstatic with the whole idea. However, just because nobody got exactly what they wanted doesn’t mean the compromise isn’t exciting.

Although the trial will create an inconvenience for pedestrians, overall safety for all parties will be increased because all users will now be properly separated. It is my personal recommendation that if you get the chance, we all make the most of the trial and take a cycle over our historic bridge this summer. It is the best opportunity you are likely going to get, riding over False Creek in peace.