Section of Broadway to close for four months due to SkyTrain construction

Vancouver's Broadway will close for four months starting in January due to the Broadway Subway project's construction, which aims to extend the SkyTrain Millennium Line. Crews will focus on removing the traffic deck and reinstalling utilities, with detours planned for vehicle traffic. Transportation Minister Mike Farnworth emphasized minimizing disruption for residents and businesses, but local leaders express frustration over the lack of financial assistance. Neil Wyles, executive director of the Mount Pleasant Business Improvement Association, reported over 50% vacancy in storefronts since 2020. The Subway project, initially slated for completion this year, is now delayed until fall 2027, incurring an additional $100 million in costs, bringing the total to nearly $3 billion.

The province's refusal to offer financial support during this prolonged disruption has drawn criticism from business groups. Despite the challenges, pedestrian access to businesses will remain open during construction. This ongoing situation highlights the significant impact of infrastructure projects on local economies and communities.