Multi-Use Pathway Now Open for Public Use
On May 3, 2018, two more sections of the new multi-use pathway running east-west through the heart of downtown Burlington opened for public use. The new sections of the pathway stretch from Elizabeth Street to John Street (Phase 2) and John Street to Brant Street (Phase 3).
Features of the completed construction between Elizabeth Street and Brant Street include:
- A new second driveway entrance for parking lot 5 from John Street
- Resurfaced parking areas, providing improved storm water drainage
- The creation of a new 300 m2 public space beside Brant Street with areas for seating, entertainment and access to potable water and electrical connections for special events.
- Replacement of existing lighting system with LED technology
- The installation of a new public art piece, Portal
- Annual plantings
Construction continues
While residents and visitors are encouraged to enjoy the newest sections of the multi-use pathway, short-term disruptions should be anticipated throughout the summer as work to complete the remainder of the project takes place.
Additional improvements that are part of the project include:
- Demolition and replacement of three bus shelters on both sides of John Street, set to begin Tuesday, July 3, 2018. During construction, temporary bus shelters will be in place on John Street. For more information, visit www.burlingtontransit.ca
- Asphalt paving of a small section of Lot 4 once bus shelter is removed
- New bike shelter and bike repair station.
More about Portal
In June 2018, Portal, a sculpture by acclaimed Canadian art and design collective Studio F Minus, was installed in the new public space near Brant Street and Elgin Street. Made from two 10-foot-diameter panes of glass, each weighing approximately 725 kilograms (1,600 pounds), the sculpture casts a multicoloured reflection as sunlight bounces off the glass during the day. In the evening, lights inside the sculpture change colour and alternate between reflection and transparency.
Construction Phases
The construction of this project has been divided into four phases to help minimize disruption in the downtown core.
Phase 1 - Pearl Street to Elizabeth Street
Construction work for the first phase of the new pathway was completed on June 9, 2017 and included the installation of a concrete pathway, lighting, bollards and resurfacing of Parking Lot No. 1 (Pearl Street Lot). Decorative elements in this section (e.g. fencing, bike racks, benches) will be added in fall 2017.
Before
After
Main Squeeze
In June 2018, Main Squeeze, a playful relief sculpture was installed on the fence that runs along the multi-use pathway between Elizabeth Street and Pearl Street. Created by Studio F Minus, the artwork captures the moment of contact between the fence and a colourful, strange material squeezing through its slats.
Phase 2 and 3 - Elizabeth Street to John Street and John Street to Brant Street
The construction for these sections of the pathway began on Sept. 5, 2017. The new sections of the pathway opened for public use on May 3, 2018. More construction to complete the project will take place throughout summer 2018.
Before
Phase 4 - Martha Street to Pearl Street
Construction for this section of the pathway is currently forecasted for construction in 2019.
Funding
On Friday, March 31, 2017, it was announced that the City of Burlington will receive both Canada 150 and Public Transit Infrastructure Fund (PTIF) financial support for the design and construction of phase 2 and 3 of this project.
Past Meetings
Phases 2 and 3 - May 2017
Thank you to those who attended the public meeting on May 16 to share your feedback on the proposed concept for phase 2 (Elizabeth Street to John Street) and phase 3 (John Street to Brant Street) of this project.
Summary notes from meeting on May 16, 2017
Phase 1 & Overall Project Alignment - May 2016
On Thursday, May 24, the city held an open house to share information about the new public space coming to the downtown core.
Contact
Marion Rabeau
Landscape Architect
Capital Works
Tel: 905.335.7600, ext. 7716
email: marion.rabeau@burlington.ca