June 12 2024 –
Repairs to Maple Tree Square are now complete, on time and in advance of this summer’s Water Street Pedestrian Zone Pilot. The City thanks all of the Gastown businesses and residents for their patience while we completed this important work.
Damaged brick pavers and asphalt patches in the roadway were removed and replaced with new brick pavers to make the street safer and easier to use. The iconic red bricks were originally installed in the 1970’s as a way to beautify the area. Similar to the original construction, these bricks were installed by hand External website, opens in new tab, section by section.
As we transition from construction to the pilot, Maple Tree Square is now fully open to pedestrians and cyclists but will remain closed to vehicles to allow visitors a safe and comfortable environment to enjoy the neighbourhood, take in performances, shop, and dine in the heart of Gastown.
“What’s happening in Gastown is really exciting stuff – now that construction is done, the fencing is down and summer weather is upon us, Maple Tree Square and Water Street are ready to shine as a patio, community and business hot spot,” said Mayor Ken Sim. “I’d like to personally invite everyone to come down to Gastown to walk, shop, eat and take in everything this iconic neighbourhood has to offer.”
This work is part of a $10 million Capital Plan investment for rehabilitation and improvements to Gastown’s streets and public spaces which includes $1.1 million for recent Maple Tree Square repairs.
Water Street Pedestrian Zone Pilot
This July and August, Water Street will be transformed into a vibrant space for walking, local businesses, culture, community-building, biking and rolling. Starting this week, City crews will begin on-site preparations with additional traffic management and installation of signage, furniture, patios and other features.
“With the brick repairs now complete, we are excited to begin transforming Water Street into a vibrant pedestrian zone with expanded patios, merchandise displays, plenty of seating and art and storytelling features courtesy of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and the səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) First Nations,” says Lisa Parker, City of Vancouver Director of Public Space and Street Use. “The City is working to ensure Gastown is safe and welcoming for everyone throughout the pilot, which includes activating the street as well as enhanced sanitation and cleaning services, community safety and peer support.”
Tips for visiting Gastown
- Locals, visitors and cruise ship passengers are encouraged to pop by the Destination Vancouver kiosk at the corner of Water Street and Cordova Street to discover everything Gastown has to offer.
- Walk, bike, roll, or take transit whenever possible.
- If you’re driving to Gastown, there is plenty of parking available including 280 on-street parking spots and 2,800 off-street parkade options.
- Plan ahead, follow all detours PDF file (2.2 MB) and obey “No Parking” signs in the area.
Background
In spring 2023, Council directed staff to proceed with urgent, interim repairs to Gastown streets and sidewalks, develop a Public Spaces Plan to guide investments and planning for the future of public spaces in Gastown, and explore pedestrianizing Water Street to support vibrant public life.
For more information on all Gastown related projects, visit vancouver.ca/gastown.