Local transportation policy wonk Matt Taylor recently published a video looking at growth and mobility in Metro Vancouver. While the title and Matt’s straight-laced voiceover may come across as dry, the video delivers a compelling analysis critique of the current state—and future implications—of our region’s transportation policy.
By the Numbers
Here are a few noteworthy facts contained in this information dense video:
- Expected population growth (2014-2044): 1.1 million people.
- Number of new Metroplaces (Burnaby 46-storey tower for 730 people): 1,500 equivalents, or 50 more every year.
- Number of additional vehicles by 2044 at current vehicle ownership rates: 730,000.
- Length of new lane kilometres needed to park these additional vehicles (at 200 vehicles per lane km): 3,700 kilometres – from Horseshoe Bay to Sault St. Marie.
- Number of new parking spaces required (3 spaces per vehicle: home, work and all other): 2.2 million.
- Space needed for parking: 66 square kilometres (1.5 times the area of Bowen Island, or 1/2 the are of Richmond).
- Cost of underground parking: $90 billion (@ $40,000 per space).
- Or $3 billion per year (equivalent to the proposed Broadway rapid-transit line).
- Expo line equivalent (26,000 passengers per hour per direction): 26 lanes of freeway.
If you enjoyed this video, be sure to also check Matt’s other video: What would Commercial Drive look like with Surrey parking standards?
Video link—and inspiration for the title—via Pricetags.
