The North Viaduct links the bridge to the North Shore road network, and runs for approximately 800m along the western edge of Squamish Nations land. Although there is, at present, little development near the viaduct it is a very substantial structure and exerts what may be characterised as a baleful influence on the site.
Although the existing 3-lane viaduct will be replaced by a new 6-lane viaduct, it is proposed to take advantage of the large volume beneath the viaduct , currently left waste, in order to create a mixed-use complex forming an animated pedestrian approach to the bridge and resulting in a substantial development which will both enhance the surrounding environment, and through multiple uses of what had hitherto been a single purpose structure, optimise the benefits of the necessary infrastructure investment, all with very low marginal impact on the surroundings.
The new viaduct would include a covered atrium of varying height as the roadway rises to meet the bridge. This landscaped space would be animated by one or two levels of retail or business occupancy topped by units which might be expected to be largely residential but which need have no specified use. Parking would be provided directly beneath the roadway, with access to the complex through a roof garden.
Assuming that 20% of the potential unit locations will be left void to promote ease of access, air circulation, and some degree of transparency, the viaduct development might consist of:
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