Aside from construction and upgrades on competition and ceremonies venues, a number of new projects have taken place in Vancouver in the lead-up to the Games.

• The Canada Line: This extension to Vancouver’s SkyTrain rapid transit system opened to the public on August 17, 2009. The Canada Line connects Vancouver and the city of Richmond, including Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Visitors can transport from YVR to downtown Vancouver’s Waterfront Station in about 25 minutes.

 

• Vancouver Convention Centre: The expanded Vancouver Convention Centre opened April 2009. The new facility will function as the International Broadcast Centre during the 2010 Winter Games. Afterwards it will contribute to Vancouver’s allure as an international meeting and convention destination.

 

• Hotel Boom: A number of new hotels are joining Vancouver’s skyline prior to the 2010 Winter Games. These include the Loden Vancouver (opened October 2008), the Shangri-La Hotel Vancouver (opened January 2009), Coast Coal Harbour Hotel (opening winter 2009) and the Fairmont Pacific Rim (opening January 2010).