Starting some time during the week of January 26th, there will be significant changes to traffic patterns around Brantford due to the ongoing work to replace the Central Park Water Main along Imperial Street. These changes will remain in place for the rest of Term 2 and possibly into Term 3, depending on construction progress.
Major Change: Imperial St at Brantford Ave will be fully closed, blocking all entry to Brantford Ave from the south end
Because Brantford Ave is a narrow street, when cars are parked on both sides, only one vehicle can pass at a time. This has been a major cause of morning congestion. Everyone’s cooperation will be essential to keeping mornings safe and manageable.
Parking Loop
- The one-way parking loop remains open for drop-offs only
- No parking rules still apply
- Please drop off quickly and exit promptly
- No left turn when exiting the loop
No Turning into the Alley
After exiting the loop and turning right back onto Brantford Ave:
- Continue straight down to Stanley St
- Do not turn left into the alley at the crosswalk
When a driver waits to turn left into the alley, it blocks all northbound traffic heading toward Stanley St and holds up every vehicle behind them. This quickly creates long backups and unnecessary frustration.
In addition, the alley is used by students walking to school. Increased vehicle traffic there makes it less safe for children.
Although turning into the alley is technically legal, we are asking families to act in the spirit of community and consideration. Choosing personal convenience over everyone else’s time and safety creates avoidable congestion.
Temporary Parking Restrictions
To improve traffic flow during peak hours:
No parking will be permitted on the west side of Brantford Ave between the loop exit and Stanley St from 7:30 – 9:30am
This restriction will provide enough space for two-way traffic to move smoothly.
The City of Burnaby will be installing signage along Brantford Ave to remind drivers of this temporary no-parking zone and time restriction.
Consider Parking & Walking
To reduce congestion, we strongly encourage parking a block or two away and walking:
- Empress Ave
- Sperling Ave
- Stanley St
- Burford St, Bryant St, or Burns St
Lakeview Ave has available parking, but access is via the alley, which we do not recommend for safety reasons.
Empress Drop-Off Option
When Imperial St and Brantford Ave close, Imperial St and Empress Ave will reopen. Families may use the cul-de-sac near the gravel field for a quick drop-off. No parking permitted in the cul-de-sac.
Please be aware that this area is expected to be extremely busy and may be just as challenging as the Brantford Ave loop. Parking further away and walking remains the most reliable option.
A Reminder About Our Volunteers
The people you see wearing high-visibility vests in the loop and at the crossing are parent volunteers, generously giving their time each morning to support safe arrivals.
They are there to help in ways both seen and unseen. Please treat them with kindness, patience, and respect. Their dedication does not go unnoticed, and we are grateful for all they do. If you are able to lend them a hand, even if it’s once a month, it’s only a 30-minute commitment.
Let’s Work Together
If everyone follows these simple guidelines:
- Use the loop properly
- Avoid the alley
- Respect parking restrictions
- Allow extra time
- Consider parking and walking
…our mornings can be calm, efficient, and safe for everyone.
Thank you for your patience, cooperation, and commitment to supporting our community ❤️.