Project Snapshot
| Category | Details |
| Client | Canada Line Transit Inc., SNC Lavalin (AtkinsRéalis), SNC/SELI JV, PNR Contractors |
| Project Name | Canada Line Rapid Transit Surveying |
| Location | Vancouver to Richmond, BC, including YVR |
| Date | 2004–2009 |
Project Overview
Introduction
The Canada Line is a major public transit route linking downtown Vancouver to Richmond and Vancouver International Airport. Underhill was contracted by multiple stakeholders to deliver a range of technical surveys during its design and construction phases.
Project Scope
Working across complex urban and underground environments, our team supported station builds, tunnel alignment, and rail infrastructure with millimeter-level accuracy.
Underhill’s Role
Surveying Services Delivered
- Topographic & Structural Surveys: Mapping of multiple station sites along the route.
- Tunnel Alignment Checks: Shaft plumbing in Yaletown and check surveys under False Creek ensured precise tunnel bore paths.
- 3D Laser Scanning: Full scan of the Dunsmuir Tunnel for structural analysis and clearance modeling.
- Legal Surveying: Delineation of rights-of-way across Richmond and the Fraser River.
- Precision Rail Layout: Exact as-built placement of rails at the Richmond Operations & Maintenance Centre (OMC), accurate to 1mm.
Technical Highlights
- Integration of CAD and point cloud data for structural assessment
- Legal title plan creation for municipal and provincial records
- Collaboration with engineering firms and joint ventures for major urban transit infrastructure
- Support from preliminary planning to final rail alignment
Project Impact
The Canada Line has become a vital component of Metro Vancouver’s transit system. Underhill’s surveys helped ensure accuracy, safety, and legal clarity—contributing to a successful and enduring rapid transit line.
