Burnaby Greenlights Design for Deer Lake Park Extension

Burnaby City Council has given the green light to a concept design aimed at extending the trail loop around the popular Deer Lake.

At a recent council meeting, Mayor Mike Hurley emphasized the need for enhanced safety along the trail, noting that currently, pedestrians are required to exit onto Deer Lake Avenue to cross the water.

This poses safety concerns due to narrow and busy streets.

“I think it brings a safety element of not having to go back out onto the street, where it’s very narrow and it gets very busy there — people are forced to walk on the street, and it becomes quite dangerous at times,” he said. “I think, I support this and I look forward to seeing it as we move along.”

City Project Manager Isabel Londono outlined the estimated cost of the extension, totaling $3.7 million, which covers the construction of a pedestrian bridge, berth walks, and pathways connecting both sides of the creek and the existing trail.

The proposed footbridge, spanning 36 meters and three meters wide, aims to improve accessibility and enhance the overall experience of Deer Lake Park, renowned for its recreational, cultural, and environmental significance.

The project is complex, with environmental and archaeological considerations.

Efforts will be made to minimize tree removal, and the city plans to engage with First Nations stakeholders as part of the process.

While construction is expected to take up to two years pending necessary permits, residents can anticipate updates on the project’s progress online.

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