A new road extension planned between North Van and West Van

Three North Shore municipalities, Squamish Nation, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations are working together as North Shore Connects to improve traffic and reduce congestion in the area.

A key priority for the group is a new east-west connection for North Shore.

The group is now working to evaluate a western Lower Level road extension, a secondary connection from Park Royal area to West 1st across the Capilano River.

Join the Facebook group North Shore Road Conditions for daily traffic updates.

“This project would help to alleviate traffic congestion on Marine Drive, improve port-related goods movement, provide improved transit options, and improve walking and cycling connections,” North Shore Connects says.

However, the project has yet to undergo an evaluation phase and in-depth study of route and what impact this extension will have.

The extension has previously been discussed as part of Greater Vancouver Gateway 2030, which identifies transportation projects that will enhance the movement of goods and people through the region.

According to Greater Vancouver Gateway 2030, the Western Lower Level Road Extension project will create a new connection between North Vancouver and West Vancouver across the Capilano River.

Traffic from local streets within the Squamish First Nation will also be diverted to this new extension, increasing livability for the people of the Squamish First Nation.

“The new connection will divert traffic away from the Lions Gate Bridge head to increase capacity for inter-municipal traffic and commuters using the Lions Gate Bridge,” the report says.

Burrard Inlet Rapid Transit, and long-term plan for the section of Highway 1 between Lynn Valley Road and the Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal are other two priorities for North Shore Connects group.