A project that aims to improve accessibility to the underground parkade in Wesbrook Village and adds more retail space to service the neighbourhood’s growing population is underway.
The project will see the removal of the movator – also known as a moving walkway – located opposite Save-On-Foods on the corner of Shrum Lane and Berton Avenue, that was used to access the underground parkade.
The movator will be replaced with an elevator and staircase, and a new commercial unit will also be added to the existing space.
“Once complete, these improvements will provide safer, more reliable access between the parkade and street level, while also creating space for a new neighbourhood business to add value to the community,” UBC Properties Trust (UBCPT) said in a release. “UBC Properties Trust seeks opportunities like these to ensure the neighbourhood remains a vibrant place for years to come.”
The changes are expected to be completed by late summer 2026, UBCPT said.
With the movator out of service, access between the parkade and street level will continue to be available via the Wesbrook Professional Centre’s elevator and staircase, which can be accessed from the west side of the building.
UBCPT advises that shopping carts are not permitted on vehicle ramps used by motorists to access the underground parkade, and shoppers must use the elevator.
The construction project will result in temporary weekday road closures along Shrum Lane from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and will be in place for the duration of the project.
Access to sidewalks will also be affected.
Beginning this month until March, the sidewalk on Berton Ave, opposite Save-On-Foods, will be closed; however, all businesses will remain accessible.