Following direction from Council PDF file (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
What's happeningWater Street Pedestrian Zone pilot
May 2025: Changes to Cordova Street
Starting in May, crews will begin preparations for the:
- Conversion of Cordova Street to 2-way traffic
- Reconfiguration of lanes on Powell Street
This work includes closing 2 lanes on the north side of Cordova, adjusting traffic signals, updating lane markings, and minor street modifications. It is anticipated to take 2 to 3 weeks.
When work will take place
- Monday to Friday from 7am to 5pm
- Some extended work hours may be needed overnight or on weekends.
Streets affected
- Cordova Street between Richards Street to Gore Avenue
- Powell Street between Gore Avenue and Columbia Street
Note Access to residents, businesses, driveways, and parkades will be maintained at all times. Watch for parking changes and ‘No Parking’ signs as work progresses.
When construction will be completed
After construction is completed in late May, Cordova Street will reopen as a 2-way street for the summer.
2025 pilot preparation
In preparation for the pilot, we continue to work with local businesses, the Gastown Business Improvement Society, and community organizations, as well as partnering with the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.
Staff are reporting back to Council in February 2025 with further details on the proposed 2025 pilot. Check back soon with more details.
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
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Spring 2023
Council motion: A people-focused Gastown
City Council directed staff PDF file (212 KB) to develop a vision for Gastown's streets and public spaces
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Summer 2023
Prepare for community conversations
Work with local Nations to establish a project relationship and met with local organizations and businesses on issues.
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Fall 2023 to winter 2024
Phase 1 engagement: Gather feedback on Gastown’s streets and public spaces
- Project objectives, people’s experience of Gastown streets and public spaces and how it could be improved
- Phase 1 engagement summaryPDF file (212 KB)
- Summary of design workshops on Gastown's streets and public spaces PDF file (2.4 MB)
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Summer 2024
Water Street Pedestrian Zone pilot
- Gather feedback on Water Street Pedestrian Zone
- Council Report on Water Street Pedestrian Zone pilot update PDF file (3 MB)
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We are here
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Summer 2025
Water Street Pedestrian Zone pilot
- Interim 2-way Cordova Street
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Fall 2025
Phase 2 engagement: Gather feedback on design options for Gastown’s streets and public spaces
- Design options for Water Street and its impacts to the surrounding transportation network
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2026
Phase 3 engagement: Gather feedback on the draft Public Spaces Plan
- Preferred design for Water Street and surrounding transportation network
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2026
Gastown Public Spaces Plan to Council
Contact us
Get updates
Questions?
Share your feedback about:
- Access, traffic, and parking impacts
- Gastown's public spaces
- Other general inquiries and feedback