Permanent public plaza now open on Robson Street

This week, the City of Vancouver’s new permanent public plaza, where Bute Street meets Robson Street, opened just in time for the holidays. Whether you’re taking in the festive lights, shopping for gifts or grabbing a bite, we welcome you to take a moment to check out the Bute-Robson Plaza. 

What started as a temporary public plaza space in 2017 is now a permanent spot to relax, meet friends and soak up the West End’s unique ambiance. And the best part? It’s here to stay. 

“Public spaces like the new Bute-Robson Plaza are where city life comes alive,” says Mayor Ken Sim. “They give people a place to pause, connect with friends and enjoy local businesses. This plaza reflects our commitment to creating vibrant streets and neighbourhoods that bring people together.” 

The new plaza is designed for connection and comfort, with plenty of flexible space for community events and gatherings with friends, family and visitors. We’ve also extended the plaza feel to Robson Street by widening sidewalks for easier strolling and raising the intersection to make walking and rolling safer. 

Here’s what’s new at the plaza: 

• Terracing with built-in seating 
• Overhead shade structures in the seating areas  
• Fresh landscaping with new plants and trees  
• Green rainwater features, including rain gardens 
• A separated bike path to reduce conflict between pedestrians and people cycling or rolling along the Bute Greenway 
• Two upgraded bus stops 
• Improved traffic signals at Bute Street and Robson Street 
• New street lighting for a brighter, safer experience year-round 

Bute Street is now permanently closed to vehicles between Haro Street and Eihu Lane. Emergency vehicles and access to parking lots will remain.

We will return next year to add finishing touches to the plaza including a weather-proof roof for the overhead structures and more flexible furniture, making the space summer-event ready. 

“We are thrilled to welcome back the Bute-Robson Plaza, a fantastic public space which reflects a longtime shared vision to create a welcoming hub for residents and visitors,” said Samara Bordan, Executive Director of the Robson Street Business Association (RSBA). “It will not only enhance the pedestrian experience but also provide new opportunities for our local businesses to thrive.“ 

The RSBA and the City will continue to collaborate and co-manage the plaza, including programming, to ensure it remains a clean, safe and welcoming public space for everyone. 

This plaza represents a capital investment of $10 million with funding support from TransLink, and the Government of Canada.  

These upgrades were shaped by feedback from local businesses, community members, and stakeholders during the Bute Greenway engagement. 

The City thanks residents and businesses for their patience during plaza construction.