Project Snapshot
| Category | Details |
| Client | VANOC, NAV Canada, DND |
| Project Name | 2010 Vancouver–Whistler Olympics Survey Projects |
| Location | Vancouver to Whistler, British Columbia |
| Date | 2007–2010 |
Project Overview
Introduction
As the world turned its attention to the 2010 Vancouver–Whistler Winter Olympic Games, Underhill Geomatics played a behind-the-scenes but critical role in delivering infrastructure through precision surveying. Our work spanned venues, transportation, aerial control, and navigation—from Hope to Whistler.
Project Challenges
The Olympic planning required fast, high-precision work across a wide geographic area. Survey accuracy was critical for international athletic standards, real-time air navigation, and infrastructure development. Coordinating with multiple government and corporate partners was essential.
Underhill’s Approach
We deployed experienced survey teams and advanced GPS equipment across Olympic projects. Underhill provided construction layout and certification for short track speed skating at the Pacific Coliseum and Killarney Rink, completed aerial photography control networks for orthophoto mapping for the Department of National Defence, and delivered precise positioning for NAV Canada’s aircraft navigation antennas.
We also supported the Olympic Heritage Rail Project connecting Granville Island with the Olympic Village and completed as-built surveys of underground utilities at Hastings Park.
Notable Outcomes
- Certified Olympic short track speed skating tracks in Vancouver
- Geodetic control for orthophoto mapping aired on Discovery Channel’s Daily Planet
- Navigation antenna GPS positioning from Vancouver to Pemberton
- Survey layout for Olympic streetcar rail line and Olympic Village infrastructure
- Highlighted by the BC Government’s 2010 Commerce Centre for contributions to the Games
Technical Highlights
- High-precision GPS geodetic control
- Orthophoto mapping and aerial survey control
- Short track speed skating layout & certification
- As-built and utility surveys in dense urban areas
- Public transportation survey layout for Olympic rail line
Project Impact
Underhill’s survey expertise supported the safe, timely delivery of Olympic infrastructure—from sports venues to public transit and aerial navigation systems. Our work enabled international competition standards, enhanced regional mapping, and contributed to enduring public infrastructure like the Olympic Village and streetcar line. These projects continue to serve communities well beyond the Games.
