With 2.2m people in an area of 2,800 sq km, the MetroVancouver region is the fastest growing and changing region of Canada. The population is expected to rise by a third in the next two decades, and the city has become an international location with recent events including the 2010 Winter Olympics. Vancouver is a popular tourist destination, with 7.7m overnight stays each year. This presents significant challenges for urban and transport planners, at a time when sustainability and reduction in greenhouse gas emissions are priority objectives of the provincial government of British Columbia.

Part of the answer lies in developing infrastructure. The light railway network and Canada Line was opened in 2009. Plans to expand the capacity and frequency of the bus network; major highway and bridge construction projects and development of cycle greenways are all part of the design to support travel. 

To achieve a sustainable outcome, behaviours must also modify significantly and in this it has been recognized that better information about transport options and connections has a big part to play.

TransLink, the regional transportation authority, commissioned the study to devise a wayfinding strategy covering all modes: car, rail, ferry, bus, cycling and walking. Based on the strategy, we delivered initial transit components including network identity, trip planning and bus information prototypes for the opening of the Canada Line light rail system and 2010 Winter Olympics. We also created design standards for wayfinding to underpin a 10 year implementation programme by TransLink. Creative development is led by the graphic and product design teams in London, with planning and delivery coordinated by its North America office.