Burrard Bridge: Vancouver’s Iconic Gateway of History and Modernity
The Burrard Bridge, an iconic structure in Vancouver, stands not just as a functional crossing but as a symbol of the city's rich history and evolving urban landscape. Since its grand opening on Canada Day, July 1, 1932, this Art Deco marvel has witnessed decades of change while retaining its historic charm.
A Grand Opening of Burrard Bridge 1932
The bridge's inauguration was a grand affair. Mayor Louis D. Taylor used golden scissors to cut the ribbon as thousands of pedestrians and hundreds of cars surged across the $3 million structure. The Kitsilano Boy’s Band, the Fireman’s Band, and even an RCAF seaplane flying under the bridge marked the celebration. A replica of the bridge, crafted entirely from sugar, was unveiled at a civic reception in the Hotel Vancouver.
Burrard Bridge Visionary Art Deco Design
Designed by G.L. Thornton Sharp of the renowned architectural firm Sharp and Thompson, Burrard Bridge stands out for its striking Art Deco style. This design movement, popular in the early 20th century, emphasized bold geometric shapes, clean lines, and decorative details.
The bridge’s most distinctive features are its two tall galleries in the middle, intentionally built to hide the steel trusses from upcoming traffic and create an impressive gateway to the city.
The central gallery proudly showcases the arms of the City of Vancouver, flanked by windows overlooking the bridge deck. On the supporting piers, you'll find intricate carvings of boat prows, each with a figurehead representing Captain George Vancouver and Captain Harry Burrard. Interestingly, Burrard himself never set foot in the region, yet his name lives on through both the bridge and nearby Burrard Inlet. These detailed sculptures, along with the city’s coat of arms, were crafted by local artist Charles Marega, adding an artistic touch to this functional structure.
"By sea and land we prosper", the coat of arms of Vancouver before 1969.
In 1969, Vancouver's motto was updated from "By Sea and Land We Prosper" to "By Sea, Land, and Air We Prosper" to acknowledge the growing importance of aviation to the city's development.
Carved Ship Prows: Honoring Vancouver’s Maritime History
On the supporting piers of the Burrard Bridge, you'll find intricately carved boat prows, each featuring a figurehead. These sculptures represent Captain George Vancouver and Captain Harry Burrard, the two naval figures after whom the bridge is named. Their presence symbolizes Vancouver’s deep maritime history and its connection to exploration and trade.
Designed in the Art Deco style of the 1930s, these carvings add a unique historical touch to the bridge. While many passersby may not notice them, these detailed sculptures stand as a tribute to the city’s seafaring past and the explorers who helped shape the region.
Interior of the Two Tall Galleries of Burrard Bridge
I found an image from the City of Vancouver Archives showing the interior of the two tall galleries of the Burrard Bridge. The space features reinforced concrete construction, which is characteristic of the bridge’s Art Deco design. In the image, several pumpkins are placed along the ledge, suggesting it was taken during Halloween. The photo dates back to 1986.
Major J.R. Grant: The Engineer Behind Burrard Bridge
The Burrard Bridge was designed by Major J.R. Grant, a Vancouver engineer and World War I veteran. He first envisioned the bridge in 1906, but the project only moved forward in the late 1920s after several failed proposals. Grant collaborated with the architectural firm Sharp & Thompson, who added the bridge's distinctive Art Deco style. His design balanced functionality with symbolic features, like the braziers, honoring Canadian soldiers.
Honoring Canadian Soldiers: The Burrard Bridge Braziers
One of the most meaningful features of the Burrard Bridge is the massive lighted braziers atop its towers. Proposed by bridge engineer Major J.R. Grant, a World War I veteran, these braziers were designed to honor Canadian soldiers, inspired by the fires prisoners of war huddled around in prison camps. Originally installed in 1932, they served as a memorial to British Columbians who served in the First World War.
Due to corrosion, the original braziers were removed in 1963 but were replaced in 1965 and later recreated in 2017. This restoration, led by the City of Vancouver, Veterans Affairs Canada, the Royal United Services Institute Vancouver, and the Vancouver Heritage Foundation, incorporated modern LED technology. A re-lighting ceremony was held on January 23, 2018, alongside the installation of a bronze plaque recognizing the service of all Canadians in wars and peacekeeping missions.
Today, the Burrard Bridge braziers continue to shine as a powerful reminder of sacrifice and resilience, keeping the memory of Canadian soldiers alive for future generations.
How Burrard Bridge Changed Vancouver's Map and Skyline
The bridge's construction not only reshaped the skyline but also altered Vancouver's street map. Before the bridge was built, the road south of it was called Cedar Street. With the new structure in place, the name Burrard was extended southward, erasing Cedar Street from the city’s maps.
Over the years, the Burrard Bridge has faced both praise and criticism. When a local art teacher once described its pillars as resembling "ashcans with a gasoline station on top," Grant defended his design, explaining that the large piers were necessary to avoid navigation hazards and to accommodate a planned light rail line beneath the roadway—a project that never materialized.
A Hub for Cyclists and Pedestrians
In modern times, the Burrard Bridge has gained fame as Canada's busiest cycling route. Following a controversial 2009 pilot project that replaced a vehicle lane with a bike lane, the bridge became the busiest cycling spot in North America, surpassing Portland’s Tilikum Crossing and Seattle’s Fremont Bridge. In 2017 alone, Eco-Counter recorded 1.13 million cyclist crossings—an average of 3,100 per day.
Note:
The journey to establish cycling lanes on Burrard Bridge was long and filled with controversy. From failed trials and political debates to cost concerns and business opposition, the project faced significant hurdles. Yet, persistence paid off, transforming the bridge into a key route for sustainable transportation. Today, the bike lanes not only promote eco-friendly commuting but also highlight Vancouver's commitment to balancing heritage, accessibility, and modern urban design.
The Hidden Stairwell Inside Burrard Bridge
Hidden within Vancouver's Burrard Bridge lies a long-forgotten stairwell, virtually sealed off since the bridge opened in 1932. Local artists Josh Hite and Scott Billings rediscovered it in 2011 while working on an art project. Once adorned with bronze railings and elegant light fixtures, the stairwell was stripped of its grandeur during the Great Depression and left abandoned. The artists spent 22 days inside, capturing footage for their installation Stairwell 2016, which showcased the eerie, graffiti-covered space. Though some architects once considered reopening it, the stairwell remains closed, a silent reminder of the bridge's hidden history.
Lighting Up Burrard Bridge: Celebrating Vancouver's Spirit
The Burrard Bridge is more than just a crossing—it's a vibrant part of Vancouver's cultural landscape, thanks to the city's Illumination Program. This program lights up the bridge, along with City Hall, to mark significant local events, cultural celebrations, and awareness campaigns. From Lunar New Year in red, or Persian New Year (Nowruz) in Green to Pride Week in rainbow colors and National Indigenous Peoples Day in orange, the changing lights reflect the city’s rich diversity. Eligible groups, including charities, non-profits, and Indigenous nations, can apply to have the bridge illuminated for their cause, with applications accepted 2 to 6 months in advance. Each light display not only brightens the skyline but also highlights the values and stories that shape Vancouver.
Unrealized Plans: Burrard Bridge’s Forgotten Light Rail Line
In the late 1920s and early 1930s, the Burrard Bridge was designed with plans for a light rail line beneath the roadway. The structure was built to accommodate the rail line, ensuring sufficient strength and space, but the project never advanced beyond the planning stage.
Burrard Bridge on Car Commercials and Movies
The bridge also frequently appears in car commercials, serving as a backdrop for sleek vehicles speeding across its deck with the Vancouver skyline in view. It’s a testament to the bridge’s enduring appeal as both a functional structure and a visual icon.
The Best Views of the City
Walking or biking across the bridge gives you some of the best views Vancouver has to offer. On one side, you can see the calm waters of False Creek, with sailboats gliding by and the skyline of downtown rising in the background. On the other side, you'll enjoy panoramic views of English Bay, with its sparkling waters and sandy beaches stretching along the coast.
Nearby Attractions Around Burrard Bridge
Once you’ve crossed the bridge, there’s plenty to see and do nearby. On the downtown side, you can explore Sunset Beach, take a walk along the seawall, or enjoy the shops and cafes of Davie Street. On the south side, Kitsilano Beach is just a short walk away, perfect for relaxing on the sand or grabbing a coffee at one of the many nearby cafés.
Looking Ahead
As Vancouver continues to grow and evolve, the Burrard Bridge remains a steadfast link between the city’s past and future. Whether you're driving, cycling, or simply admiring the view from afar, the bridge stands as a reminder of Vancouver's resilience, creativity, and commitment to honoring its history while embracing progress.
References:
- Author Saeed A Personal Experience & Photography
- vancouverhistory.ca/places/burrard-bridge/
- eco-counter.com/application/active-transportation/
- newmediagallery.ca/scott-billings-josh-hite/
- vimeo.com/181967022
- vancouver.ca/news-calendar/city-symbols.aspx
- vancouver.ca/people-programs/city-hall-lights-program.aspx
- searcharchives.vancouver.ca/restoration-of-burrard-bridge-16
- heritagesitefinder.ca/location/burrard-street-bridge/
- en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coat_of_arms_of_Vancouver
- vanmag.com/city/general/whats-inside-the-towers-on-the-burrard-street-bridge/
- montecristomagazine.com/design/vancouver-iconic-burrard-bridge-hidden-stairwell-buried-deep-inside
