City Farmer's "Country Lane" at 6th & Maple - Photo: Michael Levensten
VANCOUVER'S SUSTAINABLE LANES & STREETS

"The City of Vancouver is committed to protecting and improving its natural environment by adhering to and promoting the principles of urban sustainability. At the same time we are also committed to providing roads, lanes, and sidewalks in order to ensure the citizens of Vancouver can get around. The STREETS DESIGN BRANCH has developed some ways that both of these goals can be met."

1) SUSTAINABLE LANES
In 2002 and 2003, the City of Vancouver constructed three Country Lanes as part of a demonstration project. This alternative provides the maximum area for rain water absorption, decreasing the amount of water going into the storm sewer while still providing a usable driving surface.

The pilot project engaged residents in the planning and installation of the lanes.

"Country Lanes" are now available to neighborhoods as a Local Improvement option.

Go to the City of Vancouver Engineering Services'
Country Lanes webpage
(external link)

Construction details about one of Vancouver's
"Country Lane" pilot projects

In Support of Country Lanes (by resident Michael Klassen, former Vice-Chair of the Vancouver City Planning Commission)

2) SUSTAINABLE STREETS
Inspired by Seattle’s SEA (street edge alternative) streets, in 2005 the City of Vancouver completed its own SEA on Crown Street, just south of SW Marine Drive (5800-6200 block). The main benefits of the Crown Street project are rainwater management, traffic calming and beautification. Also, some of the more expensive aspect of traditional stormwater systems, such as catchment basins, are not necessary. This pilot project is still being evaluated.

SEE THE VIDEO about Crown Street, Canada's first "sustainable street"
(external link)

3) RAIN BARREL PROGRAM

In order to draw attention to wasteful irrigation practices, the City of Vancouver (Engineering Services, Water & Sewer) has designed and manufactured rain barrels for use by residents for garden irrigation. The City subsidizes the cost by 50% and has sold over 2000 to date and counting. Residents are limited to two subsidized barrels and proof of residency is required.

Residential irrigation accounts for 40% of domestic summer water consumption and the City hopes that by providing a practical alternative to using potable water for irrigation residents can reduce this high seasonal consumption.

Go to the City of Vancouver Engineering Services'
RAIN BARREL PROGRAM (external link)