Could evolving Granville Street into a pedestrian-friendly area make for a more vibrant entertainment district?
Could adding pedestrianized transit zones, while preserving historical landmarks, make the downtown thoroughfare the cultural hub of the city?
That's the 20-year endgame for Vancouver's latest vision for Granville Street, with the City releasing new previews today, Feb. 5, of what that may look like for those who work, live and play in the community.
The plan includes a very heavy focus on public safety, including gender-based safety, to create a more inclusive environment. Such upgrades consist of pedestrian zones and waiting areas for transit, taxi, and ride-hailing services.
"A fully pedestrian Granville Street is achievable over time," reads a draft plan by the City of Vancouver.
"Learnings from other cities and our own experiences in Vancouver point to the need for a phased approach, allowing for adaptation, testing, and partnership-building."
Vancouver has launched a public survey — happening now until Feb. 23 — in hopes of garnering enough feedback to finalize the Granville Street draft plan by June and present it to city council.
How will Granville Street transform?
Granville Street, according to the plan, would be divided into three sub-areas: City Centre, Entertainment Core and Bridgehead.
Key developments to City Centre (see image 3 in gallery) consist of large video screens and public art, a central public plaza for gatherings, better access to nearby SkyTrain stations (Vancouver City Centre and Granville), as well as mixed-use residential developments.
In fact, the city's draft said the goal is to build "some of Vancouver's tallest towers" in this section by project's end that would redefine the skyline and act as an official gateway to the downtown core.
Plans for the Entertainment Core (see image 4 in gallery) are to adding more attractions to enhance its role as Vancouver's nightlife hub. This includes clubs, bars, restaurants and music venues.
And yes, venues like the Orpheum, Commodore Ballroom and Vogue Theatre would be protected during the upgrades.
"This dynamic hub is designed for socializing, cultural experiences, and celebrations, making it a go-to destination for locals and visitors," the Granville Street draft plan explained, noting fixtures like neon signs and patio spaces are also included.
"New development will support arts and entertainment activity, and blend indoor and outdoor activities with a pedestrian zone that supports cultural events and performance."
Finally, the Bridgehead sub-area — on the lower side of Granville (see image 5 in gallery) — hopes to provide "a quieter street experience" for visitors.
This means the city will focus on bringing in a mix of cultural spaces and local shops with residential and commercial buildings. Bridgehead will also connect with Yaletown and the Granville Bridge via transit and foot traffic.
How will the plan be implemented?
The Granville Street Plan began in 2023 after city council voted in favour of the planning program. Since then, the city said it has consulted with local residents, businesses, community organizations, and host Indigenous Nations.
Notable issues Vancouver took into consideration before drafting the initial plan included safety and social supports, cleanliness, a mix of neighbourhood character, access to late-night transit and noise conflicts.
If the plans are ultimately approved, Vancouver roll out the area's transformation into three phases:
Phase 1 ("short-term")
- First five years
- Implement pedestrian-zone pilot programs
- Conduct early upgrades to transit areas
- i.e. seasonal transit measures for Howe and Seymour
- Add public safety improvements
- Zone changes for new developments.
Phase 2 ("medium-term")
- six to 10 years
- Expand cultural spaces
- Support permanent transit improvements
- Begin "larger public realm investments"
- ie. bus stop improvements, wayfinding signs, etc.
Phase 3 ("long-term")
- 11 to 20 years
- Expand cultural spaces
- Full-time bus diversion to Howe and Seymour streets (see image 7 in gallery)
- Major redevelopment projects "well underway"
- Complete fully built-out entertainment district
How can I participate?
Public engagement on the downtown Granville Street plan is on now until Feb. 23.
Interested residents are encouraged to provide their input online through its survey before the deadline.
Two in-person open houses with rendering boards and representatives at Pacific Centre Mall's Robson and Granville entrance are scheduled for Friday, Feb. 7, 1:30 to 5 p.m., and Saturday, Feb. 8, 12 to 3 p.m.
An online information session is also on the docket for Feb. 20 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. The deadline to register is Feb. 19.
For more information and to participate in the Granville Street survey, you can visit Vancouver's Shape Your City page.
