Traffic Alert: Double Trouble Ahead!

Heads up, Vancouver! If you weren't already aware, this weekend is about to hit a high note as Taylor Swift's Eras Tour rolls into the city. The City of Vancouver is warning both residents and visitors to brace for significant traffic congestion and delays throughout downtown.

With thousands of Swifties flocking to see their idol live, city officials are advising everyone to plan ahead and consider using alternative transport options. Whether it's hopping on public transit, biking, or even walking, leaving the car at home will be your best bet from Friday through Sunday. The excitement doesn’t just stop with Taylor Swift—other events, games, and festivities are expected to draw in crowds as well!

Traffic and Road Closures

For drivers, the busiest areas will be around B.C. Place, Rogers Arena, and Concord Pacific Place. Expect lengthy delays and major disruptions as road closures for the concerts will be in effect daily from noon to midnight. Some key road closures include:

- Complete closure of the 700 and 800 blocks of Beatty Street between Smithe and West Georgia Streets.

- Full closure of Pacific Boulevard from the Cambie Bridge off-ramp to Pat Quinn Way.

- Northbound Cambie Bridge off-ramp to Pacific Boulevard eastbound will also be fully closed.

- Complete closure of the 100 block of Robson Street between Cambie and Beatty Streets.

City staff have assured that access to residences, hotels, and parkades in the vicinity will be maintained at all times. Specific areas on Cambie and Hamilton Streets will serve as designated pick-up and drop-off zones for taxis and rideshares, allowing for a quick three-minute stop.

Additional Events and Transportation

In addition to the concerts, sports fans should be aware that the Vancouver Canucks will also be playing at Rogers Arena on Friday evening and Sunday afternoon. This means even more traffic woes—hockey fans are encouraged to take public transit and factor in extra time to navigate the area due to simultaneous road closures.

As for public transportation, TransLink is ramping up services across buses, SkyTrain, and SeaBus on all concert nights, including a special ‘Midnight’ train on Saturday for those burning the midnight oil at the concert. B.C. Ferries is also anticipating increased traffic, especially during peak sailing times—especially at Swartz Bay and Tsawwassen terminals. Those without reservations should prepare for longer wait times. To avoid the crowds, consider traveling at off-peak times.

Alternative Travel Options

Finally, if you're hoping to avoid the gridlock completely, Harbour Air is reporting an uptick in demand for flights to downtown Vancouver, with extra flights being added.

So, whether you're a Swiftie ready to sing your heart out or a hockey fan looking to catch a game, be sure to plan wisely and give yourself ample time to navigate through what promises to be one of the busiest weekends in Vancouver this year! Stay tuned for more updates and let the festivities begin!