Project Snapshot
| Category | Details |
| Client | Vancouver Fraser Port Authority (Port of Vancouver) |
| Project Name | Port Surveying & Cadastral GIS for VFPA |
| Location | Metro Vancouver, British Columbia |
| Date | 1920–2010 (and ongoing) |
Project Overview
Introduction
After the 2008 unification of the Fraser River, North Fraser, and Vancouver Port Authorities into the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority (now the Port of Vancouver), Underhill continued a legacy of surveying support that stretches back over 50 years. Our work has helped define and manage the infrastructure and land-use needs of Canada’s largest and busiest port.
Project Challenges
Supporting a large and dynamic port system requires accurate geodetic control, consistent cadastral records, and the ability to adapt to changing land uses and environmental boundaries. Coastal parcels, natural boundaries, and lease areas must be regularly updated to maintain legal and operational accuracy.
Underhill’s Approach
Underhill established geodetic control networks for both the North Fraser and Vancouver Port Authorities, forming the backbone for mapping, headline control, lease surveys, and hydrographic services.
As the consulting surveyors for the North Fraser Port Authority for over five decades, we managed all mapping, GIS data, and cadastral records. After the formation of Port Metro Vancouver, Underhill continued to deliver lease surveys, hydrographic data, and COGO-based cadastral compilations for upland and natural boundary parcels—delivering results directly into the VFPA’s ArcGIS system.
Notable Outcomes
- Established and maintained port-wide geodetic control networks
- Delivered cadastral mapping and GIS data for over 50 years
- Supported over 20 VFPA projects since 2008, including 9 COGO compilations
- Completed extensive water lease and hydrographic surveys for terminal users and port tenants
Technical Highlights
- Geodetic control for mapping and headline control
- Lease and hydrographic surveys for marine and shoreline parcels
- COGO-based cadastral compilations integrated with ArcGIS
- Long-term GIS and cadastral data management for port authorities
- Extensive mapping of natural boundaries and water lots
Project Impact
Underhill has played a key role in shaping the cadastral and geodetic framework of the Port of Vancouver for over 50 years. Our consistent delivery of lease surveys, GIS data, and COGO compilations has supported legal clarity, infrastructure development, and marine operations. By integrating long-term data into VFPA’s ArcGIS system, we’ve helped modernize land management at Canada’s busiest port. This enduring partnership reflects Underhill’s reliability in complex, evolving infrastructure environments.
