the city of Vancouver is launching another initiative to revitalize and transform the historic Granville Strip, home to some of the city’s most famous and iconic theaters and buildings.
The City Council has approved the terms of reference for a plan to revitalize the entertainment district by improving public spaces and enhancing cultural use while preserving the heritage and unique culture of the area.
Located between Robson and Drake, this area has the highest concentration of Single Room Occupancy (SRO) hotels outside of the 574 Downtown Eastside neighborhoods.
A staff report submitted to the council outlined challenges that have long plagued the area, including empty storefronts, crime and safety issues, declining daytime visitors and rising violence at night. I’m here.
“What this plan does is really recognize that this is, first and foremost, an arts and culture destination, a destination that we want to see in the future, a destination that is revitalized.” Kaun said. Sarah Kirby Jung.
“It’s bigger and bolder. I think Congress has sent a very clear signal to the staff that we stand by them 100% by taking bolder action to move forward. “
Business owners say Vancouver should make pandemic patios permanent
Ottawa’s new anti-Islamophobic adviser faces backlash. Here’s what you need to know
The plan’s goals, according to the report, are to increase the presence of offices and businesses, increase entertainment, dining and sightseeing opportunities, and improve transportation.
“The plan for SROs across the city, not just the Granville area, is to provide people with more dignified housing that will be replaced over time by self-contained units,” Kirby-Yung said. increase.
It also includes an enhanced rezoning process where rezoning is frozen, but applications already submitted are allowed to proceed.
The plan will also explore potential vehicle-free zones and public space options to address the current hotel shortage.
The planning phase will take 18 months and will cost approximately $300,000, with funds set aside from this year’s operating budget.
A final report is due next year.
© 2023 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.
