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Abstract

Pacific Urban Consulting (PUC) presents a transformative redesign of the Chancellor Boulevard and East Mall intersection at the University of British Columbia (UBC), a vital yet currently hazardous junction near the Point Grey cliffs. The existing intersection is characterized by excessive vehicular speeds, confusing geometry, limited infrastructure for active transportation users, and inadequate stormwater management, all of which compromise safety, accessibility, and environmental sustainability. To address these multifaceted challenges, three conceptual alternatives were initially developed: signalized intersection, roundabout, and protected bike lane configurations. Following a comprehensive evaluation through a weighted decision matrix prioritizing cost-effectiveness, safety, and environmental resilience, the protected bike lane design was selected. This design fundamentally reimagines the intersection, converting it into a simplified three-leg configuration by eliminating vehicular access to Northbound NW Marine Drive. In its place, a two-way protected bike lane is introduced, enhancing cyclist safety and connecting directly to Vancouver’s AAA cycling network. The design integrates extensive pedestrian safety improvements, including pedestrian-actuated traffic signals, protected crossings, and simplified vehicular movements through left-turn restrictions. To further improve safety and reduce vehicular speeds, the project implements traffic-calming measures such as median realignment and physical barriers. The layout supports a welcoming gateway to UBC, featuring a prominently designed reinforced concrete gateway structure with architectural detailing that reflects the university’s identity. Environmental considerations are central to the project. An integrated stormwater management system, including a rainwater garden and an ACO underground detention tank, has been engineered to retain runoff from a 1-in-100-year storm event entirely on-site, mitigating the erosion of the nearby cliffs and promoting groundwater infiltration and reuse. The project also minimizes ecological disruption by reusing existing roadway alignments and compensating for all necessary tree removals through replanting. Supported by stakeholder consultation, detailed traffic modeling, and engineering analyses, the proposed redesign enhances user safety, advances UBC’s sustainability goals, and preserves the environmental integrity of the Point Grey cliffs. With a total estimated capital cost of $7.35 million and a scheduled completion date prior to the 2025 fall semester, the project embodies a forward-looking, resilient, and community-informed infrastructure solution. Disclaimer: “UBC SEEDS provides students with the opportunity to share the findings of their studies, as well as their opinions, conclusions and recommendations with the UBC community. The reader should bear in mind that this is a student project/report and is not an official document of UBC. Furthermore readers should bear in mind that these reports may not reflect the current status of activities at UBC. We urge you to contact the research persons mentioned in a report or the SEEDS Coordinator about the current status of the subject matter of a project/report.”