West Van to improve Ambleside streetscapes

District of West Vancouver is making improvements to the commercial area of Ambleside as part of its Ambleside Town Centre Streetscape Standards project.

West Van said it is currently focused on the area near 14th Street and Marine Drive.

The improvements will include larger corners, called bump-outs, that provide an expanded and safer area for pedestrians.

This work is scheduled to be completed by early December.

The corner bump-outs will provide more space for people walking on the sidewalk, and make the area safer for pedestrians by shortening the crosswalks.

It will also create a visual effect that influences people to drive more slowly, district said. It will also provide additional space for vegetation, seating, and public artwork, where appropriate, the district added.

They also provide more space for bus shelter, and  improve wheelchair accessibility, allowing for buses to deploy wheelchair ramps.

In addition to the bump-outs, the streetscape work also includes new, wider sidewalks, curb let-downs to improve wheelchair accessibility, and additional vegetation.

“These improvements will enhance the livability of the area for residents, visitors, and local businesses. The work will be coordinated through capital programs, community growth, and development opportunities over the long-term,” district said.

“The bump-outs that are already in place outside Fresh St. Market, on Marine Drive between 16th and 17th Streets, as part of this framework, have been a positive addition to the block.”

The Streetscape Standards were approved by council in 2013.

Locals can expect intermittent westbound curb lane delays along Marine Drive at 14th Street and occasional closures of 14th Street between Marine Drive and Clyde Avenue until the project is completed.