Dedicated bike lane returns to Stanley Park

A temporary bike lane is returning to Vancouver's Stanley Park, replacing one lane of traffic on the road ringing the iconic green space.

Park board commissioners voted 5-2 Wednesday to implement the lane on Park Drive as soon as possible and keep it in place until Oct. 31.

#VanParkBoard approves motion to implement a temporary bike path on Park Drive in Stanley Park for 2021. The timeline will allow for stakeholder engagement, coordination with operational and emergency services, and full design and proper implementation https://t.co/bwxdu4elYC

— Vancouver Park Board (@ParkBoard) March 11, 2021

The vote came despite objections from businesses in Stanley Park who argue the single remaining lane for vehicles impedes access to restaurants and other attractions already struggling due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Seniors and groups with mobility challenges have also opposed the bike lane, saying it limits their ability to enjoy the park.

The dedicated lane was launched during the height of the pandemic last year to further separate cyclists from pedestrians on the busy seawall and a park board survey showed a majority of those polled supported the measure.

The lane was removed last September and the motion to renew it this year was proposed by Green party commissioner Camile Dumont citing climate change and the need to reduce vehicle traffic through Stanley Park.