This study attempts to challenge the thought that the viaducts are a disposable element in the development of the City of Vancouver. We should ask ourselves what we want. We must remember what it is that we already have. Then we could ‘calculate' what it is that we need.
It's not about whether the viaducts are needed or not as much as how to maximize their benefit.
First let's deconstruct the Georgia Viaduct that traces the same path as Pacific Boulevard does below. Then shorten the Dunsmuir Viaduct off-ramp to free up space for vibrant neighbourhoods full of shops, cafés and mixed-income housing by Main Street. Strategic landmark architecture of hotels and cultural venues will make the New Dunsmuir Via-District a global destination. How can the north and south be reconnected with the SkyTrain speeding through the middle? By groundswell urbanism: soaring parkland rising gently over tracks and landing on the shores of False Creek, linking Yaletown, Chinatown, City Gate and the Downtown Eastside once again.
Constructed as a lush, living overpass, it will reuse the demolished viaduct's concrete as aggregate. It will strategically buffer sound and pollution from traffic running through it while skylights will provide light and air. To capture the overflow of people swamping the site for events, the New Dunsmuir Via-District will be anchored by an exotic signature hotel tower pierced by the viaduct itself in a dynamic fashion. The Dunsmuir Viaduct will become a virtual red carpet at its doorstep. Below it will be art spaces of breweries, night clubs, restaurants and a place for secret rendez-vous.
Sculpted from landfill of the new development, the amphitheater at False Creek's shore will allow pedestrians and sailboats to catch a show, the sound broadcast towards the waters and not condo towers. Iconic LED light towers will identify the New Dunsmuir Via-District and provide exciting light spectacles during special events. The soaring park will provide a green repose in the heart of the city as a space for leisure and excitement. A teahouse will provide serenity and sightlines for visitors and residents as they enjoy the flow—of people, cars, bikes and time itself through bird migrations and changing colours.
(Competitor's text)
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