

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 happeningShare your feedback about the 2025 Gastown Summer Pilot
This summer, we’re testing public space and transportation changes to help shape future upgrades and programming in Gastown.
Share your experience with:
- Public space enhancements on Water Street
- Two-way Cordova Street
- Sunday Water Street Pedestrian Zone (10am to 6pm)
Information icon The survey closes August 31, 2025.
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 summary PDF file (18.5 MB)
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We are here
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2024 to 2025
Phase 2 engagement: Gather feedback on summer pilots to inform emerging directions for the Public Spaces Plan
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To be determined
Phase 3 engagement: Gather feedback on the draft Public Spaces Plan
Preferred design for Water Street and surrounding transportation network
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To be determined
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