Burnaby Lake Overpass officially opens, providing safe new crossing over Highway 1

The City of Burnaby is pleased to announce that the Burnaby Lake Overpass is now officially open. As Burnaby’s first dedicated pedestrian and cyclist crossing over Highway 1, the bridge is a safe, accessible new connection for people walking, cycling and rolling.

“For decades, Highway 1 has been a major barrier for people trying to travel north–south through Burnaby,” said Mayor Mike Hurley. “This new overpass creates a safe, direct alternative to the Kensington crossing and makes it easier for people of all ages and abilities to walk, cycle and roll between Burnaby Lake and Deer Lake—and to the parks, trails, neighbourhoods and local destinations that make our city special.”

The overpass provides a new, fully accessible route separated from vehicle traffic. By using naturally higher ground on both sides of the highway, the crossing is nearly flat and avoids long or steep approach ramps—supporting easier travel for people using wheelchairs, walkers, strollers and bicycles, or for anyone who finds hills challenging.

Safety features were built into the design, with careful attention to sightlines, lighting and openness to create a space that feels welcoming. At night, lighting integrated into the handrails clearly defines the route without spilling light onto the highway below, while additional protective elements help enhance comfort and security.

This $27.8-million overpass—measuring 5.7 metres above the highway with a clear span of 72 metres—was built by BC company Jacob Brothers. It uses Canadian weathered steel, a special type of steel with a distinctive rusty appearance, popular for outdoor uses due to its long life and durability. 

The project is funded through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, which includes contributions of $3.75 million from the federal and $3.1 million from the provincial government. Funding was also provided by TransLink and the City of Burnaby’s Community Benefit Bonus Reserve Fund, reflecting a shared commitment to improving transportation infrastructure, connectivity and public safety in the region.

Quotes:

Wade Chang, Member of Parliament for Burnaby Central —

“This project is a great example of how investments in active transportation can make a real difference in people’s daily lives. We are proud to support infrastructure that strengthens regional connectivity, encourages sustainable travel, and helps communities stay active and connected.”
 
Christine Boyle, B.C. Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs —

"Pedestrians and cyclists of all ages and abilities now have a safe, welcoming way to cross Highway 1 at Burnaby Lake. This overpass provides a fully accessible connection that makes everyday travel easier, more comfortable, and inclusive. It reflects the government’s commitment to supporting municipalities to build transportation infrastructure that puts people, safety and community connection first.”

Kevin Quinn, Chief Executive Officer, TransLink —

“Through our Local Government Funding Programs, TransLink is proud to contribute more than $8.6 million to this project. The new Burnaby Lake Overpass closes a critical gap in the Major Bikeway Network and supports our goal of making walking, cycling, and rolling a more convenient choice.”

Learn more: Burnaby.ca/BurnabyLakeOverpass

BConnected
The Burnaby Lake Overpass is part of the City’s broader work to keep Burnaby connected—expanding safe, accessible transportation options so residents can walk, cycle, roll and take transit more easily. Data from the 2024 Burnaby Household Travel Survey shows Burnaby residents make over half a million trips per day, and 37% of those trips are made by walking, cycling or taking transit.