Second Narrows Crossing project

We’re working to upgrade, replace, or relocate up to four transmission line structures that cross Burrard Inlet at Second Narrows near the Iron Workers Memorial Bridge so that they will continue to be able to operate in the event of an earthquake.

This upgrade will increase the reliability of the electrical system by upgrading or replacing infrastructure that does not meet seismic standards. It will contribute to the safe and efficient operation of the transmission lines that serve Vancouver and Burnaby.

We're currently studying two alternatives to address the seismic risks associated with structures 687 to 689 and ensure safe and reliable operation of the power lines they carry.

We'll also assess Structure 690 for seismic risk as part of both alternatives and undertake upgrades, if required.

The alternatives we're considering are:

Alternative 1

Ground improvements and reinforcing structures 687 to 689 and their foundations.

Alternative 2

Building a new overhead crossing near the existing alignment and removing existing structures 687 to 689. Two options are being considered.

Alternatives no longer considered

We also considered three other alternatives which were determined to not be viable and did not advance to the alternatives assessment:

• Do nothing.
  • Does not address the issues with the existing structures.
• Submarine cable.
  • The south bank is too steep for cables.
  • Much higher cost and longer schedule.
  • New right-of-way likely needed on both sides of the crossing.
• Installing a new cable on Iron Workers Memorial Bridge.
  • The bridge can’t carry the weight of the power cables.

We'll decide on a leading alternative after we consider a variety of items including First Nations interests, environmental and/or archaeological impacts, cost, system reliability, constructability, maintenance, property requirements, stakeholder interests and schedule.