The iconic Art Deco Burrard Bridge, opened to the public in 1932, connects Kitsilano with downtown Vancouver. The bridge is 860 metres long and comprises multiple structure types, including concrete girder and steel deck truss, and through truss spans. The bridge was aging and several components were significantly deteriorating. Moreover, the intersection immediately north of the bridge had one of the highest motor vehicle accident frequencies in the City of Vancouver.
The City engaged the Associated Engineering team in 2011 to undertake the preliminary and detailed design for the retrofit and rehabilitation of the bridge. One of the primary criteria was to adopt a Heritage Conservation approach to respect the character of the bridge. Key objectives included rehabilitation of deteriorated components including the sidewalk, railings, concrete girders, and electrical systems. In addition, functional improvements were desired including the addition of means prevention fencing and restoration of the heritage lighting.