Customers should expect partial escalator closures during construction

VANCOUVER, B.C. – Starting October 17, TransLink will begin work to replace all five escalators at Burrard SkyTrain Station, with completion expected by spring 2024. The escalators are original to the Expo Line and have been operating for over 35 years. Given their age, replacement is critical to meet growing passenger volumes.

The new escalators will feature:

• Smoother operation and braking for passenger safety
• LED step lighting for better visibility
• A variable speed option for power saving
• Improved maintenance accessibility to minimize downtime

Although Burrard Station will continue operating normally throughout construction, with partial escalator access still available, customers should expect some congestion within the station. Access to Royal Centre and Bentall Centre will not be affected during construction. Elevator access on all levels will also not be affected.

In March 2022, TransLink announced planned upgrades to Burrard Station would not proceed, due to higher than anticipated construction bid prices during the procurement process. The escalator replacement project is the rescoped upgrade at Burrard Station.

Additional information about Burrard Station:

• Fourth busiest station on SkyTrain system
• 12,000 average daily boardings (weekdays)
• Over 7.6 million annual boardings in 2019
• Originally built in 1985

More information:
TransLink Maintenance and Upgrade Program
Previously announced upgrades

Media contact:
TransLink Media Relations
E: media@translink.ca