Posted on
March 10, 2025
by
Rob Britch
Vancouver Developer Advocates for Georgia-Dunsmuir Viaducts Removal to Build 5,000 Homes
By Jami Makan | March 7, 2025
A major Vancouver-based developer is pushing for the demolition of the Georgia and Dunsmuir viaducts to pave the way for a large-scale housing project in northeast False Creek.
The aging viaducts, which require significant investment for upgrades or replacements beyond 2032, remain a key obstacle to the proposed development of Concord Landing—a new neighborhood envisioned by Concord Pacific Developments Corp. The plan includes approximately 5,000 new homes and up to 100 small commercial spaces, creating a pedestrian-friendly community.
Nearly a decade ago, Vancouver’s city council decided to remove the viaducts. However, they remain in place, awaiting the implementation of the plan. Concord Pacific recently updated its development proposal, which is expected to be the catalyst for finally dismantling the structures used by motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians.
Although the first phase of Concord Landing is not expected for at least five years, the developer is actively moving forward. An initial rezoning inquiry was submitted to the City of Vancouver a week ago, with a formal rezoning application to follow. Peter Webb, Concord Pacific’s senior vice-president of development, highlighted that this submission is a significant step, bringing together city and provincial authorities to establish a business framework before public consultations commence.
Concord Pacific originally acquired the eight-hectare site for Concord Landing in 1988 as part of the broader 83-hectare Concord Pacific Place, spanning from the Granville Bridge to Science World. The initial development plan was completed in 1990, but a revised plan was created in 2018 following extensive public input regarding the viaducts' removal. Approximately 17,000 Vancouver residents contributed feedback at that time.
The Concord Landing project will be the final stage of Concord Pacific’s development in the Expo lands, an area where the company has already established seven communities. The latest addition, Concord Central, was completed in 2019 and includes two major buildings, The Arc and One Pacific, providing over 1,000 homes in northwest False Creek.
Once completed, Concord Landing will offer a mix of residential and commercial spaces, as well as a large green space consistent with the 2018 official development plan. The neighborhood is expected to become a vibrant waterfront hub, bridging the downtown core with Science World and the Olympic Village. Georgia Street will be brought to street level, connecting Stanley Park at one end of downtown to the False Creek waterfront.
Despite the developer’s progress, challenges remain. The viaducts continue to pose a logistical issue, as they cut through the planned district. The 2026 FIFA World Cup, which may require parts of the site for staging, could also cause delays. However, Concord Pacific emphasizes that early removal of the viaducts would help reduce costs and optimize capital allocation.
The City of Vancouver has allocated $110 million from Concord Pacific’s contribution to the viaduct removal and surrounding infrastructure enhancements. Additional funding includes $100 million in community amenity contributions from the Plaza of Nations' rezoning in 2018, which could increase if the new owner, Northchild Group, seeks additional density.
Concord Pacific’s President and CEO, Terry Hui, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to the project, stating that removing the outdated viaducts is a critical step in completing the final phase of their development in the area.
