On our Stories page, we have put the call out for you to share a story, observation, or idea (big or small) on how you re-imagine downtown Vancouver. Here is our first story:
I am honoured to not only have the outlet to re-imagine what my downtown will look like over the next 25 years but also be able to vocalize and put my ideas out there into the wonderful world. Vancouver is a vibrant, ever-changing city, where the ocean is meters from us, the skyline is gorgeous, and geographically we are a top destination for people from around the world. I love sitting in my favorite coffee shops downtown, socializing with friends and enjoying downtown’s vibe and unique atmosphere. My re-imagined downtown Vancouver has more public spaces and urban plazas. This is something the city has just started to really play with, and I want to see public spaces thrive in the next 25 years.
For the last few summers, the 800-block of Robson Street has become a well welcomed public pedestrian plaza by closing off the street to automobile use and installing seat sculptures. This urban oasis in the heart of downtown invites people to relax and socialize, while enhancing downtown’s sense of community. This is evident to anyone walking by in the hot summer months as the space is buzzing with action and at certain times it is hard to find a seat. My 2040 downtown Vancouver has more urban plazas that are permanent fixtures in the downtown landscape and are accompanied by pedestrian-only street use. Not only will this create distinct public spaces that will draw in artists, street vendors, and entertainers but it will also increase pedestrian traffic and reduce the use of cars downtown, creating a safer, healthier environment for all.
My downtown Vancouver of 2040 also has a lot more food trucks. I am proud to live and work in a city that is known for its culinary abilities. Food trucks have been popping up around the city since 2010 when the city first expanded the options for food permits. My vision for our downtown includes food truck squares that optimize our public space. Food trucks provide an innovative way to offer diverse food choices while also adding another level of engagement to city life. The squares will turn food-barren areas, where lunch options are limited, into gathering places.
Re-Imagine Downtown Vancouver really is a chance to visualize what we as Vancouverites want for our future. It is an opportunity to have a hands on role in shaping our future downtown community. I took the time to take the survey and I hope you will too. If you are feeling really passionate about civic engagement, Re-Imagine Downtown Vancouver has put a call out for volunteers.
—Sarah Beley
Your Turn
Do you have a downtown Vancouver story, observation, or idea (big or small) you’d like to share? We’d love to hear from you! Share your contribution with us on our Stories page. Your contributions will help us re-imagine downtown Vancouver!