Illustrated bird’s-eye view of Gastown, showing streets, buildings, green spaces, and the nearby waterfront and rail tracks.

Gastown Public Spaces Plan

Following direction from Council (161 KB), we are developing a Gastown Public Spaces Plan.

The Gastown Public Spaces Plan will serve as a guide to:

  • Establish a vibrant, people-focused Gastown with enhanced gathering places, streets, and laneways to support a range of activities
  • Pedestrianize Water Street seasonally or year-round, starting with a pilot in summer 2024
  • Improve the street network to support a pedestrianized Water St, including walking, cycling, transit, and vehicle connections and consideration of Cordova as a 2-way street
  • Advance Reconciliation with the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and the səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations and support their visibility on their lands
  • Evolve and deepen the unique heritage feel of the area, including improved street materials and amenities
  • Identify phased project timing and funding

Did you know?

The red-brick paving, special lamp fixtures, and popular steam clock were introduced by local businesses in the 1970s as a way to beautify the area. 

Timeline

  • Spring 2023

    Council motion: A people-focused Gastown

    City Council directed staff (212 KB) to develop a vision for Gastown's streets and public spaces

  • Summer 2023

    Prepare for community conversations

    Work with local Nations to establish a project relationship and met with local organizations and businesses on issues.

  • Fall 2023 to winter 2024

    Phase 1 engagement: Gather feedback on Gastown’s streets and public spaces

  • We are here

  • 2024 to 2025

    Phase 2 engagement: Gather feedback on summer pilots to inform emerging directions for the Public Spaces Plan

  • To be determined

    Phase 3 engagement: Gather feedback on the draft Public Spaces Plan

    Preferred design for Water Street and surrounding transportation network

  • To be determined

    Gastown Public Spaces Plan to Council

Related projects

Contact us

Email: gastownpublicspaces@vancouver.ca

Questions?

Share your feedback about:

  • Access, traffic, and parking impacts
  • Gastown's public spaces
  • Other general inquiries and feedback

Submit your feedback and questions