8. In May 2020, City Council approved a goal of transforming 11% of road space into “people friendly public space.” What are your thoughts on the implementation of this ‘road reallocation’ direction? Would you change anything?
Karin LITZCKE (101) - These spaces seem a little contrived and under-utilized (even performative) in some cases; in others, they are an asset. There should be room in the model for local adaptation. And it should be noted that the creation of wider sidewalks (perhaps created with greater building setbacks) that allows for more bench space, for example, might make some road reallocation spaces unnecessary.
A percentage target seems dictatorial. It should be something that local residents can request if it would be good for the area. If not requested, it should not be imposed. (Same with “slow streets”).
Jeanifer DECENA (106) - The concept of reallocating road space for people-friendly public spaces is a positive one—but the current implementation has been unbalanced. While it’s important to prioritize pedestrians and cyclists, we must also recognize that many people rely on cars for work, deliveries, and mobility.
Right now, expensive parking and reduced road access are making it harder for businesses to attract customers and for residents to navigate the city. I believe we need to:
- Create better balance – Designate pedestrian-friendly areas where appropriate, but also maintain practical access for cars and public transit.
- Improve transit connections – If we reduce road space for cars, we must increase the efficiency of public transit so people have reliable alternatives.
- Ensure equity – Not everyone can afford to bike or walk everywhere. People with disabilities, seniors, and those living far from transit hubs should not be pushed out of the city’s core due to road restrictions.
- Expand community involvement – Instead of making top-down decisions, the City should consult with businesses, residents, and accessibility advocates to create solutions that work for everyone—not just a select group of people.
A well-planned road reallocation strategy can make Vancouver more livable—but it must be designed with fairness, accessibility, and economic impact in mind.
Sean ORR (108) - As a lifelong advocate for pedestrian safety that number seems low. But when it comes to implementing it, council needs to have courage to go all the way. The Water Street pilot for example is now only going to exist on Sundays with a huge cost of installing and removing street furniture and turning Cordova Street two-ways for just one day a week. What’s the point? This council travelled to Montreal and marvelled at the car-free streets there, but then lack the political courage to do that here. We need to move towards more public parks, more public transit, and putting our huge amount of public road land to good use.
List of Questions
- What is your favourite public space in the city – park, plaza, street, community centre, library, etc – and why?
- What role do you think public space should play regarding reconciliation?
- If you could bring one new thing to the Council table on the topics of public safety and wellbeing in the Downtown Eastside, what would it be?
- How important is the democratic function of public space to you? How would you ensure public spaces like parks and plazas are accessible and inclusive?
- What piece of public art do you like the most? How satisfied are you with the City’s approach to public art? Is there anything you would change?
- How do climate matters align with your public space priorities?
- What will you do to support our ‘main streets’ and shopping areas?
- What are your thoughts on the implementation of Council’s ‘road reallocation’ direction? Would you change anything?
- How do you think Vancouver’s parks should be governed and stewarded?
- Does the City do enough to fund placemaking and public space initiatives? Is there anything you would do differently?